If you enjoy gambling, here are some strategies to keep gambling recreational.

1) Plan Ahead: Arrange your day and evening beforehand and plan other leisure activities in addition to gambling.

2) Set a Time Limit: Determine the amount of time you are going to gamble before you start. Ensure you stick to your time limit by wearing a watch, setting your phone alarm, or have someone call or pick you up.

3) Set a Money Limit: Determine the amount of money you are going to bet before you start. Use only money set aside for entertainment, not money needed for food, bills or other necessities. Decide in advance if you are going to play any winnings along the way or keep them separate to take them home. To help you stick to your set limit, leave your debit and credit cards at home.

Karen Hlady, Community Engagement & Prevention Advisor,
Gambling Awareness Program, BCResponsibleGambling.ca