Is the stress hitting harder than the payout?

More than half of Laramie County residents who play online slots or casino games, or who participate in online sports wagering, say they’ve experienced at least two of the situations listed:

  • Bet more than they could afford to lose
  • Increased the amount wagered to maintain excitement
  • Borrowed money or sold items to fund gambling
  • Received criticism about their gambling behavior
  • Felt guilty about their gambling habits or consequences
  • Experienced health issues (e.g., stress/anxiety) due to gambling
  • Faced financial problems caused by gambling
  • Suspected they might have a gambling problem
  • Chased losses by returning another day to gamble more

If you can relate… you’re not alone, and support is available. 

Image of a cell phone with a sports betting UI screen

It’s okay to step away

In the past year, have you: 

  • Noticed a frequent preoccupation with gambling?
  • Gambled with more money to achieve the desired level of excitement?
  • Had repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling?
  • Felt restless or irritable when attempting to reduce or stop gambling?
  • Gambled to escape from problems or relieve uncomfortable feelings?
  • Chased losses or attempted to regain lost money by gambling more?
  • Lied to conceal the extent of your gambling behavior? 
  • Lost or jeopardized relationships, jobs, or opportunities due to gambling?
  • Relied on others to provide money to relieve financial situations caused by gambling?

If you answered “yes” to four or more of the above, consider taking a time out and seeking support.

It’s a positive step toward reducing your stress, and many free resources are available right here in Laramie County. 

Take a time out

Your next steps are in your control, and these resources are here to support you:

  • 1-800-GAMBLER
    The National Problem Gambling Helpline provides support for individuals who may be struggling with problem gambling or gambling addiction, or their loved ones.
  • Cheyenne Regional Medical Center – Outpatient Behavioral Health
    Get help coping with life circumstances, substance use, and/or addictions. 
  • LIV Health
    Accessible, compassionate mental health care; sliding fee scale available for those who qualify. 
  • Recover Wyoming
    Access peer-based recovery support, including the Recovery Coach program, Telephone Recovery Support program, and all-recovery meetings.
  • Volunteers of America
    Following a coordinated care model, trained experts work closely with community provider-partners to address your full range of needs. 

Sources:

Laramie County Gambling Environmental Scan