Responsible Gambling in Massachusetts: Stay Safe While Betting in MA

While sports betting in Massachusetts can be enjoyable, it's important to remember that problem gambling is a real issue impacting millions of Americans every year. 

And with several forms of gambling available in the Bay State, it's easy to get lost in the convenience and ease of depositing money with mobile sportsbooks, in-person casinos, racetracks and more. 

However, rest assured that there are plenty of responsible gambling resources to ensure that you gamble responsibly in the event that gambling becomes more than just a game. 

Tips to Ensure You Gamble Responsibly

Below are several practices to follow in order to avoid problem gambling. 

Self-Excluding

Self-exclusion is a voluntary program offered by casinos, online gambling platforms, and other gambling establishments. It allows individuals to ban themselves from participating in gambling activities for a predetermined period, usually ranging from months to years. This measure helps individuals who recognize they have a gambling problem to take a proactive step in avoiding temptation and preventing further harm.

Setting Time Limits

Setting time limits involves establishing specific durations for gambling sessions. For example, a gambler might decide to limit their gambling activities to one hour per day. This practice helps individuals control the amount of time they spend gambling, reducing the risk of excessive gambling behavior and its associated negative consequences.

Set Spending Limits

Setting spending limits involves determining the maximum amount of money that can be wagered within a certain timeframe, such as daily, weekly, or monthly. By setting financial boundaries, individuals can better manage their gambling expenses, avoiding financial strain and potential debt resulting from excessive gambling losses.

Deposit Controls

Deposit controls are features offered by online gambling platforms that allow users to set limits on the amount of money they can deposit into their gambling accounts within a specified period. These controls help individuals maintain responsible gambling habits by preventing them from depositing more money than they can afford to lose in a given timeframe.

Self-Assessment

Self-assessment involves regularly evaluating one's gambling behavior and its potential impact on various aspects of life, including finances, relationships, and mental well-being. By conducting self-assessments, individuals can identify signs of problematic gambling behavior early on and seek help if needed. This process promotes self-awareness and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their gambling habits.

Problem Gambling Resources in Massachusetts

If gambling becomes more than just a game, there are plenty of responsible gambling options provided by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, including the GameSense responsible gambling program. Below, we highlight several resources that you can contact if you feel that problem gambling is becoming an issue. 

• 📞 Call: 1-800-327-5050
• 🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/gamesensema
• 💻 Website: https://gamesensema.com/

National Resources for Problem Gambling

In addition to state-sponsored resources, there are also national resources for problem gamblers as well. 

• ✅ National Council on Problem Gambling: The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is a national organization that provides a wealth of resources, information and aid programs for problem gamblers, their family and friends. The NCPG has a 24/7 helpline that can be reached via phone at 1-800-GAMBLER, via chat at 1800gamblerchat.org, and via text at 800GAM.
• ✅ Gamblers Anonymous: Gamblers Anonymous is a self help group for anyone who may be struggling with problem gambling. The model is similar to other Anonymous Support groups and involves sharing, open dialogue, support and steps.
• ✅ Gam-Anon: Gam-Anon is a self help group catered to family members and friends of problem gamblers. They provide support and resources to help loved ones cope with the situation at hand. In person and online meetings are available and can be found on their site.
• ✅ GamTalk: GamTalk is a free open forum for anyone who has been impacted by problem gambling. You can talk with others who are going through a similar experience, share your stories and find support.