Just Ask is here to answer your questions about gambling. Use this resource to gamble responsibly or determine if your habits might be problematic.

Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. | Bar games are gambling, too. | Casinos never let you win. | Bust the bracket, not the bank. | In-game betting adds up fast. |

Gambling can be fun, but it’s designed to be addictive. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, gambling disorder affects millions of Americans. According to a study by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, an estimated 56,000 Minnesotan adults are addicted to dice, cards, online betting, slot machines, and more. Another 162,000 are at risk of developing problematic gambling habits. While problem gambling may not be perceived as a “real” addiction, it definitely is, with devastating effects on an individual’s life, health, and loved ones—just like any other drug.

STAYING INFORMED CAN HELP YOU  PLAY IT SAFE

SPORTS
BETTING
101

Rooting for your team is great. Just don’t let it break the bank. Here are some sports betting basics.

THE TRUTH:

  • Know that pride and loyalty to your team can heighten your
    willingness to risk more.
  • Online sports betting feels like a game, which makes it easy to lose control.
  • The winning odds in sports betting are not better than in traditional gambling.
  • Just like casino gambling, sports betting can become compulsive.

TIPS
AND
TRICKS

Gambling can be fun and entertaining. However, it is important to know your limit.

PLAYING IT SAFE:

  • Never bet more than you can afford.
  • Set a limit on what you will spend on a night of gambling.
  • Leave your credit card at home.
  • Avoid gambling and alcohol.
  • Gamble for fun, not as a means to make money.
  • Know your odds.

BUDGETING
AND
PLANNING

Saving money can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be! Set a goal and set something aside for savings.

CREATE A PLAN AND BUDGET.

  • Look at where you make your money and where you spend it.
  • Budgeting should be done monthly to keep track of your expenses.
  • Always set money aside for your savings.
  • Limit your spending to the amount set out in the budget: money for entertainment, such as gambling, concerts, movies, etc.
  • Stick to your budget and never borrow money from friends and family!
  • Free, confidential budget resources are available here.

KNOW
YOUR
ODDS

When it comes to gambling, it all comes down to chance. Do yourself a favor and know the odds.

REALITY CHECK:
You might think you’re the best poker player around or that you’re a fantasy sports guru, but gambling outcomes are ultimately out of your control.

For a Bit More TO Think About

F A Q