New Year, New Choices
As we step into a brand-new year, many of us are eager to embrace positive changes. Many goals are to set resolutions for a healthier and happier life. While common resolutions often revolve around physical health, it’s equally important to consider our mental well-being. One aspect that deserves attention is preventing gambling harm – a potential addiction that can have devastating effects on our mental health. In this blog, we’ll explore how making several healthy choices can contribute to preventing gambling harm in the upcoming year.
Gambling Harm Prevention
Gambling includes any activity that involves risking something of value on a game of chance for any desired result. There are many choices we can make to help prevent gambling harm, even for those who have struggled with gambling problems in the past. Some of those choices include building a supportive network, setting financial goals, and knowing where to find help for yourself or anyone else struggling with problematic gambling.
Choices For Positive Changes
Educate Yourself about Gambling Harm. Knowledge is a powerful tool when it comes to preventing gambling harm. Take the time to educate yourself and loved ones about the risks associated with different forms of gambling. Be aware of the signs of problematic behavior. Understanding the odds and potential consequences can empower you to make informed decisions. It can keep yourself and loved ones safe, and avoid problematic behaviors that lead to gambling harm.
Build a Supportive Network. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive network of friends and family can play a significant role in preventing gambling harm. Open communication about financial concerns and mental health ensures that there’s a safety net in place. Knowing that there are people who care about our well-being provides encouragement to seek help if needed and can act as a deterrent to engaging in risky behaviors.
Set Realistic Financial Goals. The beginning of a new year is an ideal time to assess our financial situation and set realistic goals. Establishing a budget and sticking to it can help prevent impulsive spending, reducing the risk of engaging in problematic gambling behaviors. Understanding our financial limits and committing to responsible money management is a crucial step towards a healthier financial future. You may need to lean on your supportive network to help stay on track, especially if you’ve struggled with gambling harm in the past.
Know How To Get Help. Help is available for anyone struggling with gambling harm. There are many resources available, from educational products to services and group. The first step to getting help is knowing where to find help.
Help For Problem Gambling in NYS
If you find yourself struggling with gambling harm, or if you suspect someone you know is facing such challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help. For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on our NYProblemGamblingHELP.org HOME PAGE to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.
When calling your local PGRC, callers are immediately greeted with a live, compassionate program manager trained to hear your needs and offer resources and services that can help. We want you to know that you are not alone.
Let’s make a commitment to prioritize our mental well-being by making healthy choices that prevent gambling harm. We can create a safer and more enjoyable environment for ourselves and those around us. Remember, the key to a fulfilling and prosperous year lies in making choices that contribute to our positive overall well-being.