SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Dr. Mary E. Donohue, CEO of the Digital Wellness Center, emphasises the usefulness of microbreaks for bettors who might feel their gaming is getting out of control. It’s a big reason, she advises, for gaming companies to demonstrate greater commitment to integrating safer gambling practices.
Imagine being a freshman like Shawn, discovering an exciting new world on a sports betting platform. Initially, placing small bets on his favourite sports teams was fun, but as time went on, especially during the isolating months of Covid, Shawn’s casual betting turned into a frequent, stress-inducing habit. This story, similar to those of many young adults, was a focal point during our panel discussion on player safety at the recent SBC North American Summit.
Shawn, feeling overwhelmed, reached out to me in confidence, seeking advice on managing his increasing urge to gamble. Knowing the benefits of microbreaks, which had helped my brother Tim navigate similar challenges, I provided Shawn with customised microbreaks designed to refresh his mind and mood whenever he felt the pull of compulsive betting.
The science made simple
At myStridePositivePlay, we apply a simple yet effective formula to improve decision-making and enhance well-being:
Good Day Boost = (Happy Moments – Sad Moments) x Magic Number:
- Good Day Boost represents the improvement in decision-making.
- Happy Moments are instances when you feel positive and uplifted.
- Sad Moments are times when you feel down or stressed.
- Magic Number is a special constant derived from our research that helps quantify the impact of emotional balance on decision-making.
This formula illustrates how regular, short breaks filled with engaging and soothing activities help reduce the frequency of sad moments and increase happy moments, leading to better overall mental clarity and healthier decision-making in gaming.
Extending the impact
Shawn’s experience with these microbreaks was transformative. He reported feeling less compelled to make impulsive bets and more in control of his emotions. Encouraged by Shawn’s progress, we integrated this approach into myStridePositivePlay, enabling the platform to monitor players’ moods and provide tailored activities based on their emotional state. This technology means players no longer need to reach out directly for support; the system understands their needs and acts accordingly.
Why this matters
Integrating responsible gaming practices is crucial for gaming companies committed to player safety. Moreover, aligning these practices with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals not only supports regulatory compliance but also enhances corporate reputation and customer loyalty. By demonstrating proactive responsibility, companies can significantly influence their market value and consumer trust.
Conclusion
Today, both Shawn and my brother Tim enjoy a more balanced approach to gaming. They occasionally reach out with updates, and although they joke about technology replacing my role, the essence of our connection remains unchanged.
At the Digital Wellness Center, we are proud to spearhead a movement towards a more responsible and sustainable gaming industry. By linking neuroscience with proactive player protection strategies, myStridePositivePlay is setting a new standard, transforming digital gaming into a space where every player can thrive safely and sustainably.
By the way, if you want to read more about Shawn and Tim, check out my book, “Digital Addiction: What it is and How One Sister and Brother Dealt with It.“
