CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – As football season begins, so too does an increase in sports betting. In the United States, the NFL is the most popular sport for betting, according to Shelia Moran, director of Marketing and Communications with WV’s Problem Gambling Help Network.

While many people can place the occasional bet without severe consequences, for some the betting becomes more.

According to Moran, nearly 1,200 West Virginians reached out for help with a gambling problem last year.

Moran said the state’s gambling helpline received an influx of calls over the last year and they anticipate more in the coming months.

Data, according to Moran, shows the number of calls to the gambling helpline has doubled in the last year.

“This is becoming more common,” Moran said.

She encourages anyone seeking assistance to “feel confident when reaching out.”

Moran says there has been a significant shift in the demographics of callers.

“We used to get more calls from women and middle-aged people when most played slots or video poker machines. Now, most callers use mobile devices to bet, either casino games or sports, and we get more calls from younger men.”

For those who gamble, the Help Network suggests using these guidelines:

· Treat the money you lose as the cost of entertainment and any winnings as a bonus.

· Plan ahead. Set a money and time limit, and stick to them. If gambling online, take advantage of the app’s responsible gambling features, which allow time and money limits.

· Avoid chasing lost money.

· Keep track of the amount wagered and money won and lost. Many features in games make you feel like you are ahead, but accurate accounting may tell a different story.

Anyone experiencing problem gambling issues can call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or chat online at 1800Gambler.net

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