This summer, during the Euro, the Copa America, and the Olympics, play responsibly!
by Tyler Doty | by Tyler Doty
NBA Finals, Euro, Copa America, Olympics: Play with Moderation!
Starting today, June 14th, with the kickoff of Euro 2024 tonight between Germany and Scotland, we're in for a crazy summer with a fantastic lineup: the European Championship from June 14 to July 14, Copa America 2024 from June 21 to July 15, Wimbledon from July 1 to 14, and then the Olympics from July 26 to August 11, not to mention the on-going NBA Finals and Stanley Cup finals!
And after all that, the various sports seasons will resume, notably the NFL and the top European soccer leagues.
While this period will be rich in emotions and sports betting for some, the SportyTrader team would like to remind you of the good habits to avoid falling into harmful behaviors regarding sports betting, which could lead to addiction.
- Remember, sports betting should never be your primary source of income and should remain a moment of enjoyment.
How to Recognize Dangerous Gambling?
The main symptoms of sports betting addiction and dangerous gambling include:
- Frequent desire to bet daily
- Betting without money limits
- Exceeding the set budget
- Increasing isolation
- Overwhelming euphoria during winning bets
- Betting immediately after a losing bet
- Jumping on boosted odds
- Feeling empty or lacking without ongoing bets
- Lying about losses, stakes, and the number of bets made
These are just a few symptoms that can indicate a state of addiction. If you recognize one or more of these symptoms, know that you are not alone and that you can get help. For details, check the resources below. You can also evaluate your gambling habits on sites like https://www.1800gambler.net/self-quiz.
Tips and Best Practices
There is no shame in having an addiction to sports betting. Some effective behaviors include reducing your time on betting sites and setting gambling limits. Don’t think it’s just a phase and that you’ll overcome it alone with time.
The best approach is to act as soon as you notice any signs, by following these best practices:
- Talk to trusted people around you
- Contact professionals
These steps are complementary; you can start by talking to a close person and then seek advice from an addiction professional.
Available Help and Associations
There are many resources available! Between specialized sites, doctors, psychologists, and addiction specialists, you have plenty of options. Don't hesitate to visit sites like https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/, https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/, or https://www.gam-anon.org/.
Alternatively, you can contact someone by phone 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER.
If you have any doubts about potential addiction, don't hesitate to take the first step and get a comprehensive assessment of your situation.
No Underage Betting!
Remember, except for a few states, sports betting is strictly prohibited for people under 21! If you are under 21, you cannot register with a sportsbook or place bets, not even physically in most states.
Sports betting is allowed for ages 18+ in Kentucky, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Washington D.C., and Wyoming.
If you manage to create an account, the sportsbook will realize the error and block your account, preventing you from withdrawing any potential winnings. To avoid wasting money and time, if you want to bet, wait until you are of legal age, and always bet in moderation!
Remember, sports betting is strictly prohibited for minors.
We also want to address parents. To avoid tempting your children (whether minors or not), refrain from discussing sports betting in front of them and never place bets in their presence.
If your child asks you to register for them so they can play (using your details and bank account), you must refuse and explain the risks and dangers involved.
Bet responsibly, enjoy your sports betting, and don't make it your primary source of income! Find all the information on our page about combating sports betting addiction.
