When to Take a Break from Sports Betting
Scott Morris | October 26, 2020
Placing a wager on a sporting event can suddenly turn the two teams on your TV that you dont care about into an exciting match up. This effect alone is responsible for why an overwhelming majority of sports bettors wager recreationally. Betting money that you can afford to lose on a game to “spice it up” is as old as sports themselves. But there are times when you probably should step back from the hobby.
When Its Not Fun Anymore
If you find yourself watching a game and being angry for most of it, you should look at taking a break. The healthiest way to bet on sports is to plop down some money on who you think will cover the spread and to make it more exciting, not to increase your anxiety levels. If you are yelling at your TV and in a bad mood then maybe you should take a week or two off and regroup. Taking a week or two off is usually the reset that people need to make the hobby enjoyable again.
When You are Betting (Losing) Too Much Money
You should not be risking money that you cannot afford to lose. If you find yourself cutting into your bill or rent money to place sports wagers then you need to take a break from sports betting. When you come back to it, wager smaller amounts. A loss or a win should not make or break you.
When You are on a Bad Streak
Sometimes you just cannot pick a winner to save your life. I have seen guys go on a dozen game win streak and a few weeks later be on a ten game losing streak. If you are on a losing streak take a week or two off. When you come back you may see the field a little more clearly or at least shake that bad juju that you accumulated.
Conclusion
Although less than 1% of gamblers are “problem gamblers” and that rate is much much lower than any other so-called “vice” (compare with 12.7% for alcohol), it is a good idea to be aware of your relationship with sports betting. It is also a good idea to know when and if you need a break. The games will always be there.
If you feel you have a problem with gambling there are organizations that can help:
