Frequently Asked Questions

General Fair Information

What are the causes of gambling addiction?

Both environmental and biological factors can trigger gambling addiction. Gambling impacts the brain’s reward centres just like alcohol or drug addiction. The brain releases a high amount of dopamine, which provides the gambler with a strong sense of satisfaction and perceived happiness. The rush that comes from gambling supplements and reinforces biochemical needs and neural pathways in the brain. Also, people with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety may turn to gambling to ease their emptiness, void, and feelings of sadness. Help for these types of gamblers may vary depending on the underlying reason for their addiction. My Recovery Space aims to help the gambler get to the root cause of their gambling problem and we are experienced in working with and treating clients with dual diagnosis.



What is gambling addiction?

Gambling for fun and enjoying it on occasion is relatively harmless and usually shouldn't lead to addiction. However, problem gambling can occur when the gambling spirals out of control and disrupts your life and those around you. Whether you bet on scratch cards, poker, slots, sports, or roulette, at the race track, online, or in a casino; addiction to gambling can lead to significant consequences. It can interfere with your personal and professional life and cripple you financially. You may even end up doing things you never thought you were capable of such as burdening yourself with increasingly mounting debt or stealing money to feed your gambling addiction.



How to stop gambling?

If you want to stop gambling, start with the following: 1. Explore your motivations for stopping. 2. Ask yourself who are you doing this for? (it should start with You) 3. Explore the reasons why you gamble. 4. Establish the extent of your current behaviour (click here for material to help you with this analysis). This should help you work out if you can do this on your own or if you need to seek professional guidance. 5. Don't make bold statements at this stage of 'never gambling again', you are setting yourself up to fail. 6. If you have tried various attempts to stop and have not been successful, we genuinely advise you to seek professional guidance. 7. If you feel ready to do this on your own, enlist the help of trusted family and friends to support you, set a stop date, take one day at a time, change your routines, understand some of the withdrawal feelings you might encounter and prepare for them. 8. Make detailed daily plans to avoid boredom and change existing gambling associated routines.



Is full recovery from Gambling Addiction possible?

After years of addictive, destructive behaviour, it is normal to ask is recovery from gambling possible. Although it may seem impossible, overcoming your addiction can happen. It takes hard work and effort and you need to be prepared to make some life-changing decisions. Do it for yourself and not for others – if you truly have the desire to recover, and armed with the correct, most up to date informstion for gamblers, then you can succeed.



How to help someone with a gambing addiction?

We are frequently contacted by the loved ones of those who are struggling with a dependence. The following signs may indicate your family member or friend has a gambling problem: • Your loved one spending more money and time on gambling than they can afford • They find it hard to manage or stop their gambling • You have arguments with them about money and gambling • They have lost interest in usual activities or hobbies like going out with friends or spending time with family • They always seem to be thinking or talking about gambling • They lie about their gambling or are hiding it from other people • They are chasing losses or gambling to get out of financial trouble • They frequently gamble until all their money is gone • They borrow money, sell possessions, and do not pay bills in order to pay for gambling • needing to gamble with larger amounts of money or for a longer time to get the same feeling of excitement or buzz • They neglect work, school, family, personal needs, or household responsibilities because of gambling • They increasingly seem anxious, guilty, depressed or irritable. If some or all of these sound familiar your loved one will more than likely need professional guidance to help quit their gambling dependence. Get in touch with us so we can advise you and discuss the best way forward.



I have a gambling problem - what should I do?

If you have are concerned that you have a gambling problem or need help with gambling addiction then get in touch via the form below to arrange an initial consultation so we can advise on the best course of treatment.



Do you have a gambling addiction therapist near me?

Yes. We provide all our counselling online and cover all areas of the UK, however we have local hubs in London and Leeds with more opening soon. For more details see our Regional Hubs.



Carnival, Tickets and Wristbands

When are discount tickets available and where can I purchase them?

Discount tickets will be available in June and can be purchased via our secure online webstore. Click here to Purchase Carnival Tickets!



What days are unlimited carnival ride days and how do I purchase wristbands?

Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. Wristbands (handstamps) are available at the ticket booths in the carnival area.



How much do ride tickets cost?

1 Ticket ... $1.25
20 Tickets ... $20.00 (buy before 6 pm on August 19th for half price.)
56 Tickets ... $50.00
Each carnival ride takes 2 to 5 tickets. 1 less ticket on Thursday - Children's Day

Tuesday, Friday* and Sunday are hand-stamp days.
Ride all the rides from noon till closing for only $25



Livestock and Animals

When can I see the animals in the barns?

The animals will be available all week for you to see them and to talk to their farmers,



Can I pet the animals in the barns?

Please ask permission from the farmer before petting any of the animals at the fair.

Animals may bite or kick.

Members of the FFA - Future Farmers of America have plenty of opportunity for petting of baby ducks and chicks in the FFA building. Wash your hands after petting any animal. Washing stations are located throughout the fair.



Can I feed the animals in the barns?

No. These animals are on strict diets for their health and safety.



What precautions should I take in the barns and after leaving the barns?

Children should be supervised at all times. Avoid animals when they are being walked, they startle easily. Wash hands with soap and water after leaving any animal facility.



All guests are encouraged to wash their hands after any contact with animals or their living area, as well as prior to eating or drinking.

Holy Smokes, 
Don't Miss the Fair! 
August 23 to 29 2021

Washington County Fair, New York

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