LA Department of Health Gambling Support LA Department of Health Gambling Support

Sports Betting​

Have a Game Plan for Responsible Sports Betting

With the rise of legal sports betting in Louisiana, more people are placing bets on teams, games, and player stats, often right from their phones. While it may seem like just part of the game-day excitement, sports betting can quickly turn risky without limits or awareness. Understand the risks, recognize early signs of a problem, and take steps to stay in control.

Why Sports Betting Feels Different

A blue map pin icon sits on top of a globe, with curved lines on each side indicating location signals or connectivity.
Everywhere

Betting ads are on TV, social media, and even during games. It’s easy to get caught up in the action.

A green and white lifebuoy icon with motion lines on the left, suggesting movement or action, on a plain white background.
Fast-Paced

In-play betting and live odds can lead to impulsive decisions and quick losses.

A black and purple bullseye target with an arrow hitting the center, symbolizing precision or achieving a goal.
A Skillset

Unlike traditional gambling, sports betting can feel like you’re just “making smart picks.” But it’s still a game of chance.

Three simple human figures, two standing together and one facing them, with an orange accent. A speech bubble containing three dollar signs ($$$) is above the single figure, suggesting a discussion about money.
Social

Fantasy leagues and friendly wagers can mask the seriousness of problem gambling.

Develop a Game Plan

Illustration of a purple calculator with a large coin featuring a dollar sign in front of it, representing financial calculations or budgeting.
Set a Budget

Decide how much you can afford to lose and don’t go over it.

A simple illustration of a stopwatch with a blue outline and black hands, showing the time at about 1:00. Three motion lines on the upper left indicate the stopwatch is moving or ticking.
Limit Your Time

Take breaks and avoid betting for long stretches.

Illustration of a person with a worried expression, wearing an orange shirt. A black lightning bolt symbol appears near their head, suggesting pain, stress, or a headache.
Don’t Bet When Emotional

Avoid gambling when angry, stressed, or under the influence.

Cartoon of a green dollar bill with motion lines on the left, suggesting the money is moving or flying.
Never Chase Losses

Trying to win back money often leads to bigger losses.

Illustration of one hand giving a green coin with a dollar sign to another hand, with a diagonal line crossing through them, symbolizing no cash payments or transactions.
Avoid Loans

Don’t borrow money to gamble.

A green smiley face in front of a gauge with the needle pointing to the highest level, which is shaded green, indicating a very positive or high rating.
Keep it Fun

Bet for entertainment, not as a way to make money.

Why Sports Betting Feels Different

Why Sports Betting Feels Different

A blue map pin icon sits on top of a globe, with curved lines on each side indicating location signals or connectivity.

Everywhere

Betting ads are on TV, social media, and even during games. It’s easy to get caught up in the action.

A green and white lifebuoy icon with motion lines on the left, suggesting movement or action, on a plain white background.

Fast-paced

In-play betting and live odds can lead to impulsive decisions and quick losses.

A black and purple bullseye target with an arrow hitting the center, symbolizing precision or achieving a goal.

A Skillset

Unlike traditional gambling, sports betting can feel like you’re just “making smart picks.” But it’s still a game of chance.

Three simple human figures, two standing together and one facing them, with an orange accent. A speech bubble containing three dollar signs ($$$) is above the single figure, suggesting a discussion about money.

Social

Fantasy leagues and friendly wagers can mask the seriousness of problem gambling.

Develop a Game Plan

Illustration of a purple calculator with a large coin featuring a dollar sign in front of it, representing financial calculations or budgeting.

Set a Budget

Decide how much you can afford to lose and don’t go over it.

A simple illustration of a stopwatch with a blue outline and black hands, showing the time at about 1:00. Three motion lines on the upper left indicate the stopwatch is moving or ticking.

Limit your time

Take breaks and avoid betting for long stretches.

Illustration of a person with a worried expression, wearing an orange shirt. A black lightning bolt symbol appears near their head, suggesting pain, stress, or a headache.

Don’t bet when emotional

Avoid gambling when angry, stressed, or under the influence.

Cartoon of a green dollar bill with motion lines on the left, suggesting the money is moving or flying.

Never chase losses

Trying to win back money often leads to bigger losses.

Illustration of one hand giving a green coin with a dollar sign to another hand, with a diagonal line crossing through them, symbolizing no cash payments or transactions.

Avoid Loans

Keep it Fun Bet for entertainment, not as a way to make money.

A green smiley face in front of a gauge with the needle pointing to the highest level, which is shaded green, indicating a very positive or high rating.

Keep it fun

Bet for entertainment, not as a way to make money.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

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877-770-STOP (7867)

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