Who’ll score the most during the FIFA World Cup?
With the FIFA World Cup underway, many of us are looking forward to summer match days, big moments and whether or not England will make it into the final. Whether you’re watching with friends, family or just keeping an eye on the scores, it’s an exciting time.
But when the excitement builds, so can the pressure to place a bet. Gambling adverts become more visible during major tournaments, and it can start to just feel like part of the experience.
Our Beezee teams believe that looking after your wellbeing means looking at the whole picture, not just your food and activity. This is why we think it’s important to talk about topics like gambling and signpost you to the right support.
Foul play
During a single match, you and your family will see approximately 3 to 6 adverts related to gambling. According to a study by the University of Sheffield, betting frequency increased 24% during matches due to gambling adverts throughout the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
There’s nothing wrong with the odd bet if it stays fun and within your control. But it’s worth remembering that 1 in 5 people experience harm related to gambling, so make sure that you’re looking after your wellbeing.
Beating the odds
Gambling can harm more than just your bank balance. It can have a negative impact on your relationships with family and friends, and your wellbeing too.
Here are some simple tips from GambleAware to help you keep things in check so it stays enjoyable:
- Kick off with a spending limit: decide what you’re happy to spend before game day and stick to it. This will help to limit your losses and help you stay in financial control.
- Don’t get caught offside: avoid chasing losses. Trying to win back losses often leads to bigger losses and spending more than you planned.
- Call timeout on betting: set a time limit and take a break from betting if it starts to feel like a chore.
- Check-in on yourself and your team: notice how you’re feeling. If gambling is starting to impact your mood, sleep, family-time or relationships, it’s okay to ask for support.
Gambling support
If gambling is starting to feel difficult to manage, you’re not on your own. There is support out there, and reaching out is a positive first step.
- Gamstop: free, easy solution to block yourself from online gambling
- Betknowmore: peer support services for people experience gambling harm
- Mind: free mental health support charity
- CALM: suicide prevention charity offering mental health support