Since Kentucky is the epicenter of the horse racing industry, gambling has been a part of the culture for generations. However, now that sports betting is legally available, there is another avenue that is going to appeal to many people who do not bet the horses.
As a result, the potential for problem gambling has increased, so this is always going to be a source of concern. Fortunately, regulators take responsible gambling seriously, and we are going to look at all of the details here so you can go forward in a fully informed manner.
Problem gambling resources in Kentucky
Fortunately, there are resources available for people who have a hard time controlling their gambling.
All of the licensed horse racing tracks administer programs that assist people who are having these difficulties. Let’s look at the other organizations you can turn to for problem gambling assistance in Kentucky,.
KYGamblingHelp.org
The Kentucky Lottery points people toward the KYGamblingHelp.org website, and it is a very useful resource. When you visit the site, you are urged to call 1-800-GAMBLER to speak with someone about problem gambling solutions.
There is also a link that will lead you to a live chat session where you can initiate a conversation in real-time. Additionally, you will find a questionnaire that you can go through to determine if you have a gambling problem, a potential problem, or no problem at all.
Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling
You will find comprehensive guidance on the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling website. There is a list of certified counselors in all parts of the state on the site, and there are phone numbers for hotlines in Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati in neighboring Ohio.
QuitGamble.com
Another avenue is QuitGamble.com, which is an online community that provides a plethora of self-help information and insight. There are videos and personality tests, and the site has been described as the first social network for people who are confronting gambling challenges.
When you become a member, you can access the chatroom and get involved in ongoing conversations. There are also forums that you can check out, and there is social activity 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Gamblers Anonymous
Everyone has heard of Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12-step program that helps people who are battling alcoholism.
Gamblers Anonymous is built on the same concept, and the organization has been around for decades creating group meetings where recovering gamblers can support one another.
Gam-Anon
People who are close to individuals with gambling problems have struggles of their own to deal with, and it can be hard to cope. Gam-anon is an organization for people who are in this position, and it can be very beneficial to interact with others who understand what you are going through.
GamTalk
Finally, there is GamTalk, which serves as a digital hub where you can talk about gambling issues with other individuals. This platform offers an excellent opportunity to participate in impactful conversations without going anywhere.
Overview of responsible gambling
At the end of the day, responsible gambling is not rocket science. Everyone with a credit card that has a reasonable limit can go out and buy things they really cannot afford. This is always a possibility, but you have to be mature enough to manage your finances in a responsible manner.
The same thing can be said of drinking alcohol or eating fattening foods. Moderation and mindfulness are key when you are gambling, and you have to set reasonable expectations.
Yes, you may win money, but this is the exception rather than the rule in the big picture. The idea is to enjoy the excitement with the full understanding that there is a good chance that won’t win.
Tips for gambling responsibly
Follow these recommendations to ensure a responsible gambling experience with no negative outcomes: