April 5th, 2024
It’s March – a time of basketball, brackets and, sometimes, betting. For some people, gambling can get out of control. Thanks to apps and the internet, the opportunity to gamble is greater than ever. If gambling is disrupting your life or the life of a loved one, the McCall Behavioral Health Network has the resources to help.
Tips to avoid problem gambling.
For gambling to be a diverting leisure activity, there are several tips that are important to consider.
- Set limits on how much time and money you spend on gambling.
- Avoid “chasing losses” – don’t continue gambling in an attempt to recoup lost money.
- Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Take breaks from gambling – it’s good to step away for a period of time.
- Understand that risks of gambling extend beyond financial loss. Gambling can impact relationships, work, and mental health. It can also lead to legal issues.
Signs to watch out for.
There are clear signs that gambling is getting out of control. You may be in harmful territory if you’re:
- Set limits on how much time and money you spend on gambling.
- Avoid “chasing losses” – don’t continue gambling in an attempt to recoup lost money.
- Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Take breaks from gambling – it’s good to step away for a period of time.
- Understand that risks of gambling extend beyond financial loss. Gambling can impact relationships, work, and mental health. It can also lead to legal issues.
Being aware of gambling’s impact.
“I feel like we all have behaviors that might affect our lives, but we can’t always see them clearly,” says Carissa D’Amico, LMSW, ICGC-1. Carissa’s a counselor at McCall’s Renato Outpatient location in Waterbury. She’s also nationally certified to treat problem gambling.
For those who are concerned that their gambling could be problematic, Carissa can provide expert guidance and support. “McCall is always happy to help.” That’s Carissa’s message, adding, “We’re going to work with you on what your personal goals are. We’re not going to push you into never gambling again or doing something you don’t want to do.”
You can reach out to Carissa and McCall by calling our main number: 806.496.2100. You can also contact us through our website at mccallbhn.org. Other valuable resources for problem gambling include the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Gamblers Anonymous, and a 24-hour Helpline for support via text, phone or chat.
WZBG Interview
Problem Gambling – Carissa D’Amico LMSW, ICGC-1, Outpatient Clinician
In honor of March being Problem Gambling Awareness Month, McCall Outpatient Clinician Carissa D’Amico LMSW, ICGC-1 joined Dale Jones from FM 97.3 WZBG for a conversation about responsible gaming, signs that gambling may be becoming a problem and support options.
Click on the image to listen to the full FM 97.3 WZBG interview.
