Independence Gsy

Royal Ascot is a great excuse for a bit of fun at work, but office sweepstakes are not comfortable for everyone.

For some people, even a small bet can be a trigger. Others may be trying to cut back on gambling, managing money worries, or supporting someone affected by gambling harm.

A few ways to keep things inclusive:

• Don’t pressure colleagues to take part
• Avoid jokes about “being boring” if someone says no
• Offer a free-to-enter prediction game instead
• Swap cash prizes for cakes, coffee, or bragging rights

The best workplace traditions are the ones everyone can enjoy.

If gambling is becoming stressful, Independence offers free and confidential therapy in Guernsey. Reach out at Independence.gg.

The FIFA Club World Cup can make betting feel like part of the game, but it doesn’t have to be.

There are plenty of ways to stay involved without putting money on the line:

• Join a Fantasy Football league
• Swap cash bets for fun forfeits
• Coach a youth team
• Join a local club committee
• Play EA Sports FC with friends
• Sign up for five-a-side
• Volunteer at your local club

If betting is taking the fun out of sport, and you need guidance on how to get the thrill back, Independence offers free and confidential counselling in Guernsey.

Independence.gg

When Sport Is Everywhere, Gambling Can Start to Feel Normal

Temptation is around every corner with events like The Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, Wimbledon, the Fifa World Cup, Royal Ascot and the US Golf open to name a few. There is always another event, another offer, and another reason to place “just one bet.”

Look out for these common indicators that you or a friend may need to cut back:

• betting more often than planned
• spending more than intended
• chasing losses
• checking odds constantly
• feeling stressed when the event is over

Sport should be enjoyable, not financially stressful, so If betting is starting to take the fun out of the season, maybe it's time to seek some support. Book a free session with one of our therapists at Independence.gg.

Research suggests people in the LGBTQ+ community are more likely to experience substance use problems, often due to minority stress, discrimination, and social pressure.

Independence offers non-judgemental counselling for everyone so if you are finding you are slipping into a bad relationship with alcohol, drugs or gambling, we are here to listen and to help you find the colour in life again.

Contact us on [email protected]

With so many events centred around drinking or gambling, it can feel like that’s the default way to socialise this time of year.

The Spring Walking Festival offers something different, getting out, meeting people and enjoying the island without that pressure.

The Spring Walking Festival includes:

• Ghost walks
• Hidden gems tours
• Seaweed foraging
• Lihou Island 'Famous 5' adventures
• Town history walks
• Accessible options

Sometimes a change of pace is all that’s needed.

Did you know?

Binge drinking, drinking a large amount in a short period, increases the risk of accidents, injuries and poor decision-making, especially at events and long weekends.

Mixing alcohol with prescription medication can also:

• Change how the medication works
• Increase side effects
• Make it easier to take more than advised

It’s a combination that can catch people out quickly.

Enjoy the music the bank holiday...not the side effects. If you are binge drinking on a regular basis or overusing prescription medication it might be time to have a chat about why that is...we are here if you need support.

Check out these ideas for some gorgeous walks in guernsey to blow away the cobwebs!

“I will always be grateful for what you've done and I can't thank you enough. I wish you all the best in everything you do. You're amazing :) 255 days alcohol free today :)”

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight, it’s built day by day, with every decision.

255 days is a huge milestone, and a reminder that change is possible with the right support. Contact us to start your recovery journey at independence.gg.