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, here are some 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 by providing them with the means to continue gambling. This might delay the realization of the need for change or professional help.
Addressing the 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. 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, so 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 gambling addiction is lying or being dishonest to conceal gambling activity. Online sports betting is allowed in more than two dozen states, making the access to dangerous gambling easier than ever before.
Financial strain from gambling, even if you are indirectly involved, can be bad for your heart.
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