Should You Give Money To A Sports Gambler?

Giving money to someone struggling with gambling can be a complex issue.

Generally, you don’t want to enable more gambling. You shouldn’t give a gambler money to continue gambling and chase losses. 

It doesn’t matter if it’s an informal loan or a gift.

Giving someone with a gambling problem money to help him or her cover their expenses or bills depends on the situation and the closeness and trust of the relationship. 

There is no general advice we can give here.

However, there are considerations if you think the money you might give to a gambler will be used to continue gambling.

Enabling Behavior

Directly giving money can inadvertently enable their gambling behavior. It provides them with the means to continue gambling. 

This will delay their realization that they need to change and/or professional help.

Underlying Issue

It’s essential to address the root cause of the gambling. 

Offering support for them to seek professional help or counseling can be more beneficial than providing funds that could be used for gambling.

Financial Protection

Protect your own financial stability. 

Giving money, especially if it compromises your financial security, is not advisable. Set boundaries to protect yourself and your assets.

Support, Not Enable

There’s a difference between supporting someone and enabling their destructive behaviors. 

Support can mean helping them find resources, accompanying them to therapy sessions, or offering emotional support.

Conditions for Financial Help

If you decide to help financially, consider doing so with clear conditions attached, such as the money being used for specific expenses (rent, bills) and requiring proof of payment. 

Alternatively, pay bills directly rather than giving them cash.

Encourage Responsibility

Encouraging the person to take responsibility for their actions and financial situation can be part of their recovery process. It’s difficult but crucial for recovery.

This includes dealing with debts and financial consequences due to gambling.

Seek Advice

Consider seeking advice from your social circle and professionals, such as financial advisors or counselors experienced with treating the mental illness of gambling addiction, for strategies on handling the situation effectively if someone with a gambling problem asks you for money.

Of course, each situation is unique. 

It’s important to weigh the specifics of your circumstances and the individual’s willingness to change when deciding whether to give money to someone who gambles. 

It can be a very hard decision if they are a loved one.

It’s important to remember that one of the signs of a betting addiction is lying or being dishonest to conceal gambling activity. 

Online sports betting is widely allowed in the U.S. and beyond, making access to dangerous gambling easier than ever before.

Financial strain from gambling, even if you are indirectly involved, can be bad for your heart.

Addressing the Root Cause

Gambling addiction is a mental health disorder that requires appropriate treatment. 

Simply providing financial assistance without addressing the underlying issue may perpetuate the cycle of addiction.

Encourage your loved one to seek help from reputable organizations:

• Gambling Harm: Offers a collection of information for all things related to PG
• Gamblers Anonymous: Offers support groups for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
• SAMHSA National Helpline: Provides confidential support and resources for mental health and substance use disorders.
• National Council on Problem Gambling: Offers a range of resources, including a helpline and treatment options.

Deciding whether to give money to a sports gambler is a complex and personal decision. 

It’s essential to consider the potential consequences and prioritize actions that support recovery rather than enable harmful behavior.

Remember, your support can make a significant difference in helping your loved one or friend seek the help they need.

Explore More

• How Do I Know If I Have a Gambling Problem?
• What Is ‘Chasing Losses’ In Sports Betting?
• Parlays Are Bad For Your Brain: The Near-Miss Effect

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