Sports betting should be entertainment, not a problem. If gambling stops being fun—if it's causing stress, financial issues, or relationship problems—it's time to step back. Here are tools and resources available to you.
WARNING SIGNS
⚠️ Recognize These?
- Betting more than you can afford to lose
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
- Lying about gambling to family/friends
- Neglecting work or relationships to gamble
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not betting
- Gambling to escape problems or stress
If any of these apply, take action now. The tools below can help.
SPORTSBOOK TOOLS
All licensed Latin American sportsbooks are required to offer responsible gambling tools:
- Deposit limits: Set daily/weekly/monthly maximum deposits
- Loss limits: Cap how much you can lose in a period
- Session time limits: Automatic logout after set time
- Reality checks: Pop-up reminders of time/money spent
- Cooling-off periods: Temporary account suspension (24 hours to 6 months)
- Self-exclusion: Permanent account closure
How to access: Look for "Responsible Gambling" or "Juego Responsable" in your account settings or footer of the sportsbook website.
HELP RESOURCES
🌎 Gamblers Anonymous International
Free support groups worldwide. Online meetings available in English and Spanish.
Website: gamblersanonymous.org
📞 National Council on Problem Gambling (US)
Free, confidential helpline for US citizens anywhere.
Call/Text: 1-800-522-4700
Chat: ncpgambling.org
🇨🇴 Colombia - Coljuegos Resources
Contact Coljuegos for local support referrals.
Website: coljuegos.gov.co
🇲🇽 Mexico - SEGOB Resources
Mexico's gambling regulator offers support information.
Website: juegosysorteosmexico.gob.mx
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Set a budget: Only bet money you'd be okay losing entirely
- Separate accounts: Keep gambling money separate from bills/savings
- Take breaks: Step away regularly, especially after losses
- Don't drink and bet: Alcohol impairs judgment
- Never chase losses: Accept losses as the cost of entertainment
- Talk to someone: If worried, talk to a friend, family member, or professional
NEED HELP NOW?
If gambling is causing you problems, reach out today:
US Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7)
Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org
You're not alone. Help is available.