The Super Bowl betting market is expected to reach record-breaking numbers, with legal betting now available in nearly 30 states and Washington D.C. While exciting for many, this can be challenging for those struggling with gambling addiction.

Let's examine the three most common types of Super Bowl bets and their associated risks.

Moneyline Bets:

• Simply bet on which team will win
• Favorites show negative numbers (e.g., -190 means bet $190 to win $100)
• Underdogs show positive numbers (e.g., +160 means bet $100 to win $160)
• Risk: Higher payouts for underdogs encourage risky betting behavior

Point Spread Bets:

• Bet on the margin of victory rather than outright winner
• Favorites must win by more than the spread
• Underdogs can lose by less than the spread and still win the bet
• Risk: Spreads can change after placing bets, and winning team doesn't guarantee winning bet

Over/Under Bets:

• Bet on combined total points scored by both teams
• Choose whether final score will be over or under set number
• Risk: Uneven payouts between over and under options, totals can change after betting

Responsible Betting Guidelines:

1. Only bet on sports you understand
2. Set and stick to a strict spending limit
3. Never bet under the influence
4. Don't chase losses
5. Understand all associated risks

If gambling becomes problematic, help is available. Treatment options include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Dialectical behavioral therapy
• Gamblers Anonymous meetings
• Individualized aftercare planning
• Professional counseling support

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