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Gambling is a popular pastime for many Americans. It seems harmless enough; after all, you are in control of your own money and have pretty good odds of winning big.  However, truth be told, very few people win big. In fact more people lose big rather than win anything, yet continue to raise the stakes until all is lost.

Great gamblers might say that knowing “when to fold em” is one of the best skills to have. Knowing when to walk away is the difference between someone having fun and someone who has a problem. If you are new to gambling here are a few ways to keep yourself from going too far.

Keep it honest: Have someone who keeps you accountable. This could be a family member, spouse or friend. Tell them when you go gambling, where, what you played, how much you won and how much you lost. This simple step can help tether a new player to reality.

Set financial limits: Make a deal with yourself and your accountability partner to keep a certain amount of cash on hand and when it runs out to walk away. If you realize that you have a problem, get help immediately. Use online directories such as canada 411 to find help for addiction.

Establish personal boundaries: Are their unacceptable times for you to gamble?  Are there friends that cause you to spend too much or stay too late at the tables? What games do you lose the most money in? Create your own rules for gambling. Realizing that the stakes in life are too high (family, finances, emotional health) may be the key to escaping gambling addiction.