HEALTHY PLAY TIPS

Healthy play means you’re using low-risk strategies when you gamble, like sticking to a budget. People who use healthy play strategies typically enjoy gambling as just one form of entertainment across a variety of leisure activities. They factor gambling into their household budget by setting spending limits and sticking to them. They don’t expect to win back money they’ve lost, nor do they attempt to use gambling as a way to earn money. It’s important to that all gambling activities have risk and to enjoy your time playing, you must be aware of the risks and how you can minimize them.

The best way to enjoy playing lottery and casino games is to follow some general rules of thumb. Here are some tips for keeping the fun in the game:

PLAY FOR FUN, NOT TO MAKE MONEY

Whether you win or lose, gambling is a form of entertainment that costs money, just like going to the movies or dinner. Have fun playing and know that the house always wins.

KNOW WHEN TO FOLD

If you’ve reached your budget or time limit, walk away. Responsible players know when it’s time to fold.

Know your limit, play within it

Set a budget and stick to it. Only playing with money that you can afford to spend and deciding how much time you’ll play are good strategies to help you stick to your limit.

Take a break

Taking frequent breaks while gambling will help you make better decisions. Going for a walk or grabbing a snack are two ways to take a breather.

Play Smart

Knowing how games work and the odds of winning and losing will help you make more informed decisions while you play.

Life is about balance

Gambling is much more fun when you balance it with other entertainment activities. Mixing it up makes sure gambling is just one of the things you enjoy doing.

Keep it fun

Nobody can predict the outcome of a game because it’s completely random. The only thing you can count on is the unpredictable nature of the game. You can, however, control how much you bet, how often you play, and for how long. That’s why your best bet is to set a time and money limit before you gamble — it’s the best way to keep the fun in the game.

Gamble with a clear head

Alcohol and cannabis impair judgment. When using these substances, everything you feel, good or bad, is intensified and can lead to less healthy choices such as spending too much money, not keeping track of your play, or chasing losses thinking a win is around the corner. Alcohol and/or cannabis use can also:

Impair coordination and concentration
Increase anxious and depressed feelings
Affect short-term memory and logic

Limiting the use of these substances allows you to keep your wits about you, and have more fun while playing.