After
a bitter New England Winter, summer is finally here. It’s the time for
relaxation and a “good time,” especially for college students. Whether working
or backpacking across Europe, summer is the time students expect to unwind from
their hectic college lives. However, while it’s always nice to have fun, it’s
important to remember to be safe and make educated decisions.
Approximately
18% of U.S. College students have gambled weekly
in the past year. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic &
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has outlined 9 warning signs to
keep in mind while partaking in gambling activities.
·
Needs
to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired
excitement.
·
Is
restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
·
Has
made repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
·
Is
often preoccupied with gambling (e.g., having persistent thoughts of reliving
past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, thinking
of ways to get money with which to gamble).
·
Often
gambles when feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed).
·
After
losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s
losses).
·
Lies
to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling.
·
Has
jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job or educational or career
opportunity because of gambling.
·
Relies
on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by
gambling.
With these in
mind, keep a cautious eye out for loved ones and even yourself. If you have
identified four or more of these signs as consistent characteristics in
their/your life, don’t be afraid to call our helpline: 800.426.1234.
Now that you know the signs of problem gambling, here
are some suggestions of ways you can keep busy in the Boston-area during the
summer that are either free or low cost. If you are living elsewhere, check
your local newspaper or look online to keep up on free and low-cost events in
your area.
·
Go
to the beach and spend the day with friends, family and loved ones. There are a
number of beaches in New England that can be prime destinations to soak up the
sun when the weather is right. According to Boston.com, Revere
Beach is hosting its annual sand sculpting contest on July 12th – 15th
this year. Remember to bring your sunscreen!
·
There
is a child in each of us and you are never too old for the Zoo. Spend a few
hours viewing the exotic animals in your nearest zoo: Zoo New England
·
Spend
your evenings watching free flicks outdoors. The Boston
Harbor Hotel’s Summer in the City Series presents concerts and films by
the harbour. WBZ Radio’s Free Friday Flicks offers movies at the Hatch Shell
on the Charles River Esplanade.
·
One
can unwind around the city of Boston to sweet melodious music by students from
the Berklee
College of Music as part of the Berklee’s 2013 Summer Concert
Series and admissions are free.
·
Summer
brings the opportunity of being outdoors for every activity, one of which being
the SOWA Open Market. There is the SOWA Arts Market, Food Trucks and SOWA
Farmer’s market. Just about anything your heart desires. SoWa Open Market
·
After
a winter of being inside and eventful with snow storms, get some exercise and
stay cool at the same time by spending a few hours paddling around the Charles River.
·
Visit
your local State Park for a picnic, hike, or to sit by a pond. The
Massachusetts park directory will help you find that perfect spot! Places to Go: DCR Parks in
Massachusetts
There
are endless opportunities to have an exciting, eventful and risk-free summer.
Check out Boston.com or WickedLocal.com for more
activities and events in your area this summer.
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