Don’t Bet On It

Don’t Bet On It

Don’t Bet On It 1649 1099 AEPC Health

Don’t Bet On It

Every day, we take small gambles — often without even realizing it. From eating food past its expiration date to driving a little over the speed limit, life is full of calculated risks. Some of these risks add a spark of excitement to an otherwise mundane day, or challenge us to try something new. That thrill you feel? It’s your brain’s dopamine response, making risk-taking feel rewarding.

But not all risks are created equal. Some can spiral into dangerous territory — especially when they involve our finances or health.

Raising the Stakes

Risk-taking starts early. As kids, we make friendly bets with our friends and family — who can run the fastest, win a board game, or sink the most baskets. The stakes are low, and the fun lies in the competition, not the reward.

Gambling for money, however, takes risk-taking to another level. With deep roots in American culture, it traces back to colonial-era lotteries that funded public projects and universities. By the 19th century, horse racing had become a popular pastime, with tracks emerging in New York, Kentucky, and California. The Kentucky Derby, first run in 1875, remains one of the most iconic betting events in the U.S. Over time, gambling evolved — Las Vegas casinos opened in the 1930s, and state lotteries spread in the late 20th century.

And now, it’s easier than ever to gamble — because the casino is in your pocket. With mobile apps, betting on sports, poker, and online casinos is just a tap away. There’s no need to drive to a casino or buy a lottery ticket in-person. The convenience makes it tempting to place “just one more” bet, increasing the risk of developing a gambling problem.

Just One More

With greater accessibility comes greater risk. A casual scratch-off ticket or a night at the casino might seem harmless, but for some, gambling turns into a compulsive habit with serious consequences. The rush of winning — or the hope of winning — can be addictive, leading people to chase their losses, spend beyond their means, and fall into financial ruin.

Problem gambling doesn’t just drain bank accounts; it damages relationships, fuels stress, and can lead to mental health struggles. Unlike other risks, where the potential benefits are more balanced, gambling is designed so that the house always wins in the long run. The illusion of control keeps people hooked, even when logic tells them the odds are stacked against them.

Risky Bets

Some risks are worth taking — like the occasional $5 lottery ticket or trying a new restaurant. But when it comes to health, the gamble rarely pays off.

Skipping checkups, brushing off symptoms, or indulging in habits like smoking, drinking, or that extra slice of cake might feel harmless in the moment. After all, what’s the harm in enjoying a sweet treat like cake or ice cream after dinner — or even both? But here’s the catch: the long-term consequences can be serious. It’s easy to overlook the risks because the effects aren’t immediate — but they are very real.

Think about it: we check the oil in our cars because we know neglecting it can lead to costly repairs. The same goes for our health. Simple steps today — eating well, exercising, managing stress — can prevent serious issues later.

Just Walk Away

Life involves risk — it’s unavoidable. But knowing when to take a chance and when to walk away is key. A leap of faith on a new career? Maybe. A reckless financial or health decision? Not a good idea.

Next time you’re facing a tough choice, ask yourself: is this risk really worth the reward? Often, the wisest decision isn’t taking the chance but knowing when to step back.

And if you stumble, don’t stay down — get back up. Every day is an opportunity to embrace the spirit of National Get Up Day on February 1 — a campaign founded by U.S. Figure Skating in 2017 that encourages us to keep going, no matter how many setbacks we face!

Happy reading,

Suzanne Daniels
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Enjoy the weekend!

Best,
Suzanne
Suzanne Daniels, Ph.D.
AEPC President
P.O. Box 1416
Birmingham, MI 48012
Office: (248) 792-2187
Email: [email protected]

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