Sports betting can be an enjoyable pastime for most people, but for 2-3 percent of the adult population, it can lead to more gambling. The Prince William County Community Services, or CS, stands ready to help, though, by providing resources and education to people who find themselves in trouble because of gambling.

“We’re providing education and awareness around gambling, as well as how individuals can gamble responsibly and maybe prevent gambling from becoming problematic, in addition to giving people an increased awareness of what resources are available,” said CS Wellness and Prevention Team Supervisor Wendy Hunt.

Sports gambling can lead to problem gambling that can lead to gambling addiction, which mirrors other obsessions with disruptive behaviors. The signs of problem gambling can sometimes be hard to spot. Problem gambling includes all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Problem gambling can also be associated with disruptive behaviors that include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, bouts of depression, increased substance use, agitation and isolation, as well as expressions of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts.

Spending a lot of time thinking about gambling, looking forward to the next gambling opportunity or trying to figure out how to get money to gamble can be warning signs, as well.

People who notice the signs and want to put their gambling in check and avoid falling into problem gambling can take steps to help themselves.

“Know what your financial limit is before you step into an event,” Hunt said. “Know what you can actually afford. Don’t borrow in order to place bets or gamble or recoup costs. Set time limits so that you’re not spending an inordinate amount of time in front of a screen or at the casino. The biggest is to place boundaries on yourself and only gamble for fun without the intent of trying to make money.”

Educating people and raising awareness about responsible gambling can help county residents avoid pitfalls.

“Education can reduce the impact gambling can have on mental health and individuals turning to substance use or experiencing problematic mental health challenges associated with gambling,” Hunt said, “It can reduce crime and the financial instability that people may experience as a result of gambling.”

People who suspect that they or someone they know has a gambling problem can call the National Council on Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or the Virginia Hotline at 1-888-532-3500, which offers around-the-clock support, hope and resources.

People can also register to attend the “Sports Betting: If You Bet, Know Your Limits” on Thursday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. to learn more about problem gambling, including its causes and risk factors, signs and symptoms, consequences, prevention strategies, and how to seek help. For more information and resources on Problem Gambling, email Hunt at whunt@pwcgov.org.