Avoid
the regret
Helpful tips that can help
keep gambling fun.
Truth or
Myth
The more you know about gambling, the better
Are you playing it smart?
Take this quiz
to gauge your
problem gambling
risk level.
Welcome.
We're glad you're here.
Whether you’re betting on sports, wagering online or gaming at a casino, there’s no doubt that gambling can be a fun activity, but it can also lead to some serious problems. We have tips and information that can help keep gambling from getting out of hand.
Think you might need more help? Click here
or scroll down to find important resources.
And always remember: play it smart. Don’t Regret The Bet.
Tips to help keep gambling fun
Think of Gambling
as Entertainment.
Not As a side job.
Like concerts and sporting events, gambling is paid entertainment—you’re paying for the experience. So have fun! Learn how the games work. Enjoy the excitement, the thrills and the socializing. Make it about having fun, not trying to make money. And if it ever stops being fun, make sure you stop right away.
Know your limits.
And stick to them.
Time and money slip away quickly when you’re gambling. So it’s important to know how much of both you’re willing to part with. Set limits and then tap out when you’re out of time, money or both! That way, you’ll keep gambling fun. Give it a try. Set limits and walk away when it’s time.
Keep a good balance
between gambling
and other activities.
Don’t make gambling your only form of entertainment. Keep it balanced with other things you enjoy doing. Having a variety of hobbies helps contribute to a healthy, balanced life. And make sure gambling doesn’t interfere or compete with life priorities like work, school, family, relationships, food and sleep.
Don’t chase
your losses.
Chasing losses is a dangerous trap. Trying to win back what you've already lost is a desperation move that rarely ends well. Feeling frustrated, discouraged or panicked isn’t much fun, so resist the urge and keep your focus on enjoying the games. Remember to stick to your budget. Because in the end, the house always wins!
if you’re “feeling lucky,”
Don’t believe it.
Several bad hands in a row doesn’t mean you’re close to winning. Machines, tables, cards—they’re never hot nor cold. And if you leave now, it’s unlikely that the next person will "steal your jackpot." Remember, the odds of heads coming up on a coin is always 50/50, even if that coin just hit tails on 500 straight flips.
Keep your head
on straight.
Make sure you're in the right frame of mind before gambling. If you're feeling depressed or stressed, gambling’s not the right activity for you. If you’re thinking of gambling, remember how substances like drugs and alcohol cloud your judgement and can lead to bad decisions. Your best bet? Only gamble when your head’s on straight.
How well do you know
the true facts about gambling?
Knowing the truths about gambling is like having a secret weapon in your arsenal of fun. It allows you to make informed decisions and will help make sure you don't end up regretting the bet. So take a moment to learn these helpful truths.
Need help? You've come to the right place.
We understand that struggling with a gambling problem can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. And we want you to know that you're not alone and there's help available. Below is a list of helpful resources and links that can provide support and guidance. We encourage you to take action. And you should know - a person with a gambling addiction is capable of a full and lasting recovery with the right help.
Helpful Downloads
Take advantage of the downloads below. You’ll find helpful resources, advice, specialized information for both seniors and parents of teens, and a problem gambling self-assessment. To download, simply click on the resource name below:
Ready to take action?
Need to take action to limit your gambling? Or seeking further help or counseling? Click the More Help button below to visit MGCB’s Responsible Gaming page. There you’ll find information about the Disassociated Persons List and the Internet Gaming and Sports Betting Self-Exclusion List, which allow you to self-exclude yourself from gambling activities. You’ll also find links to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Gamblers Anonymous, Gam-Anon and other resources.
Need immediate help? If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, help is available. Call the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-270-7117.