Super Bowl 2024 just concluded with the Kansas City Chiefs taking down the San Francisco 49ers in a tightly contested matchup that ended in a score of 25-22. You may have heard that the sportsbooks are the ones who took a big financial hit on the overtime outcome of the game, however, not all bettors came out unscathed. Whether due to wagering on an outright win, the point spread, over/under, props, or a parlay, you ended up having to pay the piper. We encourage you to use the fact that you lost money on the Super Bowl as an opportunity to reassess your relationship with sports betting. After all, you’re reading this article which infers that you are beginning to question it. Let’s find out if there may be an issue that requires immediate attention.
4 Important Questions to Consider After Losing Money on the NFL Super Bowl and Reassessing Your Relationship with Sports Betting
I. Did Your Gambling Debt Just Get Worse?
The average gambling addict debt is between $55,000 and $90,000. If your wager on the Super Bowl has you headed in that direction, within the zone, or deeper in debt, there is a very good chance that you have a problematic relationship with gambling. Although, the value of debt is relative, as someone who lives from paycheck to paycheck can be burdened by even being a few hundred in the hole. If the money that you lost on the Super Bowl has you stressed about debt due to gambling, follow these three steps to freedom.
II. Are You Rationalizing Sportsbook Reloads to Recoup Super Bowl Losses?
Dangerous words for a problem gambler
Your first thought after losing money on the Super Bowl, is about how to recoup the financial loss. However, instead of considering rational steps, such as working extra hours or taking on additional clients (as applicable) to save money to cover debt or loss of disposable income, you have another plan – win the money back on NCAA March Madness. Either that, or some other sports event that quickly precedes the conclusion of Super Bowl Sunday. Betting more to cover sports betting losses is a form of irrational problem solving that is evident in individuals who have a gambling problem. If the thought crossed your mind, please keep reading.
III. Are You Going to Borrow Money to Recover Super Bowl Losses?
You may have also considered borrowing money from friends or family to cover the loss that the NFL Super Bowl outcome just handed you. You may even be considering asking for an advance on your pay, or heading to the local pawn shop with a family heirloom. These thoughts, are also consistent with those who suffer from gambling disorder. Read ahead to answer one more important question.
IV. Do You Exhibit the Other Signs of Sports Betting Addiction?
At this point. it’s probably obvious that the questions above are related to symptoms of a sports betting addiction. It’s now time to take a looks at other signs that you may have a problematic relationship with gambling that needs to be addressed through therapeutic intervention. In addition to the items above, consider if you exhibit any of the following:
- You constantly talk about sports betting.
- You experience elevated emotions (gamblers “high”) when you place bets and closely follow progress/outcomes.
- You have tried to control, cut down on, or stop sports betting, without success.
- You get sad, irritable, restless or anxious when not betting. You may even act aggressively when taking a time out.
- You bet on sports to escape problems or relieve feelings of stress, anxiety or depression.
- You neglect school or work (as applicable) because of the time and energy spent sports betting.
- You forget and/or neglect important occasions with friends, family, or coworkers because of the time and energy spent sports betting.
- You have become distant from friends and family.
- You have resorted to theft or fraud to support sports betting.
- You have lied about sports betting.
Unsure of where you stand after referencing the signs and symptoms above? Complete this quick 5-minute questionnaire below to find out if you may suffer from gambling disorder:
Whether the test indicates that you have a gambling problem, or you remain unsure, it’s time to speak with a counselor who can help put you on the road to recovery. Reach out to a Kindbridge Behavioral Health care coordinator to schedule your first session and get ready to break free from the grip that sports betting has on your life.
Lost “Too Much” on the Super Bowl?
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