Raffle gambling is a harmless fundraising activity for most people, but it can be part of a pattern of compulsive behavior and addiction for others. It involves purchasing tickets for a chance to win prizes in a random drawing. And while raffles are commonly used for charitable purposes, they can also become addictive for people who seek the thrill of winning and the excitement of chance.
Who’s More Prone to Raffle Gambling Addiction?
Raffle gambling addiction can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but it may be particularly prevalent among people who attend events or fundraisers where raffles are common.
How Raffle Gambling Addiction Is Different From Other Types of Gambling Addiction
Raffle gambling addiction differs from other forms of gambling addiction in its focus on chance-based events with predetermined rewards or outcomes. It requires no skill or strategy and relies solely on luck.
Unlike casino gambling or sports betting, raffle gambling has limited availability, so those struggling with addiction don’t have as many opportunities to partake as they would with other types of gambling. However, because this type of gambling is lower stakes, it’s attractive to people with limited financial resources and/or those who tend to be otherwise risk-averse.
Raffle gambling also has a charitable giving component, so participants are motivated to support a nonprofit or other worthy cause. In addition, the raffles are sometimes held during events, which fosters a sense of community and belonging.
What Those Addicted to Raffle Gambling Should Do
If you or someone you care about is struggling with raffle gambling addiction, either as its own activity or as part of a wider pattern of problem gambling, here are some smart steps you or they can take:
Admit That You Have a Problem: Acknowledging the issue is the first step in any gambling addiction process. The sooner you are honest with yourself about the impact that raffle gambling is having on your life and relationships, the sooner you can start getting help.
Reach Out: Friends, family, coworkers, and support groups can be great sources of compassionate understanding and encouragement. Find someone or a group with whom you can share your experiences.
Research Gambling Treatments: Gambling addiction as a specialty is relatively new, but Gambling Clinic of Texas has tailored counseling programs specifically for gambling addiction. Its programs include therapy, counseling, and support groups that are personalized and provide coping mechanisms to help overcome raffle gambling addiction.
Cope With Stress in a Healthy Way: For some, raffle gambling is a way to blow off steam or ease loneliness, but when it gets out of control, it can be a source of anxiety. Explore other ways to remedy boredom that don’t involve gambling. Do healthier things like pick up a hobby, exercise, or spend time with friends and family to deal with your daily stress.
Be Patient: Take it day by day, because recovery is a journey. You are not perfect, so don’t strive to be. The process of overcoming addiction will have its ups and downs. Be fair with yourself as you are making changes and celebrate small victories whenever you can.
No one plans to become addicted to gambling, but once they acknowledge they are, there are ways to stop and get it under control. Gambling Clinic of Texas treats people just like you who want to control their gambling addiction. Complete our free Self-Assessment to see where you are on your journey. Then call us and let us help you take the next step.