Gambling is a fun pastime. The thrill of supplementing one’s income is a good one, but if you are not careful it can quickly spiral out of control. The dream becomes a nightmare. There are, of course, a few tell-tale signs that gambling is becoming more than just a hobby. Knowing what to look for in your behaviour, or indeed a friend or loved one’s behaviour, can save everyone a lot of heartache. The following article outlines just a few of the ways to prevent an addiction taking hold.
Don’t Overspend
There are a few ways to play that will ensure safe play. For example, if you only think of gambling as a pastime or entertainment rather than a job to make money, you are less likely to get sucked in. It is also important to play with money that you can afford to lose. Setting a specific bankroll aside and spending only that is very important. It should not be dipped into for any other reason – it is solely for gambling. This goes both ways, and other money, for example for bills or rent, should also not be dipped into for gambling purposes. Keep these cash streams entirely separate.
Don’t Play for Hours
It can also be useful to set a time limit for how long you will play, as it is all too easy to get sucked in. In addition to this, taking a break is also important. Snapping out of the zone may stop you from playing excessively. It is also important to try and play in moderation, balancing gambling with other activities so that it does not become the sole area of entertainment in your life.
Don’t Lose Your Head
Finally, it is also important to play in a balanced frame of mind. Never play when sad, angry or drunk as this will seriously impair any judgments you may make.