Key advice for gambling safely this tournament
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The biggest football tournament comes as the nation faces steeply rising living costs, at a time of year that is typically associated with increased spending over Christmas.
There are concerns that these circumstances may create a perfect storm that increases gambling and the harms associated.
Gambling harms can affect anyone, which is why it’s so important to check in with your loved ones, as it might not appear that they’re struggling. One conversation can break the stigma around gambling, provides reassurance that you are not alone and shows that help is always at hand.
With betting promotions on social media and television likely to increase over the next few weeks, the majority of football fans agree there are too many gambling advertisements during major sporting events and other international tournaments*.
Football fans who gamble are encouraged to avoid that sinking feeling you get after making a bet you wish you hadn’t, also known as ‘Bet Regret’.
For free advice, search BeGambleAware or contact the National Gambling Helpline.
And here independent charityGambleAwareprovides advice on how to avoid Bet Regret this tournament...
Bookies and gambling companies invest a lot of money in data to ensure that, over time, you’ll give them more money than they’ll give you.
So if you do bet, think of it as part of the match expense, like paying for a TV subscription to watch the game.
Before you start betting, decide how much you can afford to lose and only bet with that amount.
It can sometimes be hard to stick to a self-imposed limit, but setting a limit on the gambling company’s app or website can help.
It's easy to lose track of time – and miss other life moments – when you're gambling.
Odds are that the more time you spend gambling, the more money you will lose.
Set a time limit or alarm, and when time's up, quit and do other things you enjoy.
Like your team, ‘you win some, you lose some’.
If you’ve lost the money limit you’d set yourself, it’s time to walk away.
Chasing your losses will usually just lead to bigger losses.
Taking note of how you’re feeling before gambling can help you avoid Bet Regret.
If gambling has become your only way to have fun, consider whether it might be starting to cause you problems.
It can help to balance gambling with other things you enjoy.
Gambling continuously can make it harder to keep track of time and perspective.
Stepping out at regular intervals for some air or a bite to eat can help clear your head.
Drugs and alcohol can make it harder to stick to your limits.
If you do drink or use drugs, tell a friend about your betting and limits, to help you stick to what you have decided.
Anyone affected by gambling harms in England, Scotland and Wales can call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 orchat to an online advisorfor one to one confidential advice, information and support.
*https://www.opinium.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/OP22453-Freuds-GambleAware-Preventing-gambling-harms-Website-Final-Report.pdf
