Gambling can be a fun entertaining activity. It can also become a problem when it presents difficulties in limiting money and/or time spent on gambling. Problem gambling can affect families and work environments of gamblers. Signs of problem gambling are preoccupation with gambling, talking only about wins, not losses, and withdrawal from family and friends. Other red flags are hiding losses from family, borrowing money to gamble, and using gambling to escape from problems.

Responsible gambling requires setting time and budget limits and sticking to them. Avoid trying to win back losses and make it a rule not to gamble on credit. Don’t use gambling to relieve stress.

McPherson County FCE’s are hosting a public meeting in conjunction with Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services to provide information about gambling. The meeting will be held on Monday, August 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the McPherson County Extension Office, 600 W Woodside, McPherson, KS. Hosting the meeting are Canton Dizzy Dames FCE of Canton, Happy Homemakers FCE of McPherson and Kettle Queens FCE of Moundridge.

Information will be available at the meeting about why people gamble, gambling and the brain, history of gambling, and free resources available to help stop gambling.