Special to the Times Vedette
Super Bowl, College Basketball, March Madness, Daytona 500 and horse racing. What do these activities have in common? Many people enjoy placing bets on the results of these events. It’s the time of year when gambling opportunities ramp up. While many people gamble recreationally, for some it can lead to financial stress, relationship problems, anxiety, depression and other serious consequences.
Here is a brief screening for problem gambling.
- During the past 12 months, have you become restless, irritable or anxious when trying to stop/cut down on gambling?
- During the past 12 months, have you tried to keep your family or friends from knowing how much you gambled?
- During the past 12 months, have you had such financial trouble as a result of your gambling that you had to get help with living expenses from family, friends or welfare?
If you can answer “yes” to any of these questions, you may be at risk for developing a gambling problem. New Opportunities is here to help. We offer confidential counselling in our five-county service area. For more resources, Your Life Iowa provides a brightly lit front door for those seeking services across Iowa. No judgement, only help.
If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing a problem with gambling, reach out to 1-800-BETS-OFF from Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support. New Opportunities, Inc. is part of the Iowa Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Service System with services funded by the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant (SUPTRS BG). For more information on problem gambling, visit the Your Life Iowa website at yourlifeiowa.org or contact New Opportunities Inc. Behavioral Health Department for Problem Gambling treatment at 712-792-9266.