College Sports Betting

College students are at higher risk for developing gambling problems due to:

• Increased exposure to betting platforms
• Peer pressure and social gambling
• Financial stress and impulsive decision-making
• Male college students, specifically, are more likely to report gambling in the past year, gambling with more money and having a gambling problem.
• College students with gambling problems are more likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as tobacco use, binge drinking and illegal drug use. 

Know the warning signs

• Betting more than you can afford to lose
• Feeling anxious or irritable when not betting
• Hiding your gambling from firends or family
• Chasing losses or borrowing money to gamble

As students, the chance to place wagers on college sporting events can be very appealing; however, there are some concrete steps one can take to ensure they are practicing safer betting:

Set Boundaries

• Set limits on how much you bet and how often.
• Only gamble with money set aside for entertainment. Pay your bills first.
• Never borrow money to gamble

Stay Informed

• Know the risks before you bet. Sports betting is not a guarenteed win.
• Understand that everyone loses over time. Tthe odds are not in your favor.
• Knowing more about sports doesn't guarentee a win.

Keep it Healthy

• Balance gambling with other healthy activities like exercise, socializing, or hobbies.
• Don't gamble to escapte stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Avoid gambling when under the influence of alcohol or other substances.

Recognize Red Flags

• Don't chase your loses. Know when to walk away.
• Never gamble when stressed, depressed, or in recovery.
• Keep gambling social, not secretive or isolating.

Know Your Rights & Resources

• Know what's legal to play in your area.
• Know where to get help. See the resources listed below that can help you or a loved one.