Play it safe
A lottery ticket is entertainment that costs money. As a group, players get back less than they put in — that is how the prizes are funded. Treat what you spend as spent, not invested.
Practical guidance
- Decide what you can afford to lose before you buy, and stop there.
- Never borrow, use credit, or spend money meant for essentials.
- Do not spend more after a loss, or after a small win.
- Track what you spend over a month, not per ticket.
- Take breaks. If it has stopped being fun, that is a reason to stop.
Signs worth taking seriously
Consider getting support if any of these sound familiar:
- Spending more than you planned, or more than you can comfortably lose.
- Borrowing, selling things, or using bill money to buy tickets.
- Hiding how much you play from family or friends.
- Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you cannot play.
- Playing to escape stress or low mood rather than for enjoyment.
Getting help
If gambling is causing difficulty for you or someone close to you, support is available. A doctor or a counsellor is a good place to start.
In India you can call the Tele-MANAS mental-health helpline on 14416 — free, any hour, in several languages.
14416Playing the lottery is subject to age limits and local law. Please follow the rules that apply where you live.
For important limitations, see the Disclaimer.