Sports Gambling During the Superbowl
Watching the Superbowl
The Superbowl is the annual championship game for the National Football League. It is often a time where there are large gatherings of friends and family with an opportunity to watch the game. It is a time to socialize and celebrate with loved ones. However, if you are struggling with your sports gambling, watching the big game may be more complicated. It may be a day where you are betting more than you can afford to lose.
If you are struggling with your sports gambling, it may be difficult to be present in the moment. Stress and anxiety can become overwhelming and cause you to not enjoy the game. Are you worried more about the outcome of the game? Are you spending every commercial break checking point spreads and stats? This could be a sign that your sports gambling is becoming a problem.
It can be difficult to share that you may be struggling, but there is help and hope available and it is okay to ask for support. The Problem Gambling Resource Centers are here to help and want to assist you in achieving your goals and living your best life.
Signs you may be having difficulty with your sports gambling
The big game on Sunday may bring about triggers and stress surrounding your gambling. You may realize what you once thought was fun is now becoming a problem in your life. If sports gambling is becoming a problem for you, you may recognize some of the following:
- Thinking about gambling often. Is the point spread and the score of the game more important to you than enjoying the day with family and friends? Are your sports wagers all you think about?
- Covering up or lying about your gambling. Do your loved ones know that you are betting on sports? Have you ever lied to them about where the money is going or how much you have spent?
- Missing time with family and friends to gamble. When you are with your family are you really present? Is there a party for the game, but are you not really participating in it?
- Are you spending more than you can afford to bet on sports? Are you unable to pay bills or other needs because your money is spent gambling?
- Have you tried to cut back on your gambling? Do you keep telling yourself that this will be the last time, but it never is?
Reaching out for support
If you relate to any of these signs, it may mean that you are having a problem with your gambling. Your relationships and life may be feeling the strain from your gambling, and this can be causing tension and irritability in your day-to-day. Know that it does not have to be this way and you can reach out for help to reduce or stop your gambling.
If watching the game with your family and friends is causing you stress and anxiety, pick up the phone and reach out for support. Our program managers at the New York State Problem Gambling Resource Centers are available to answer your call and find the best resources for your needs. Visit www.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org to get connected to care in your region.