Sweepstakes lobbies are designed to hold attention, and the free entry routes reward coming back every day. That is harmless for most people and not harmless for everyone.

Watch for buying coins to chase a balance back, playing longer than you meant to, hiding how much you spend, or reaching for a lobby when you feel low. Any of those is worth acting on early rather than waiting for a bigger reason.

Most casinos offer deposit limits, session reminders, cooling-off periods and self-exclusion. They are usually in account settings under responsible play. Setting a limit while you feel fine is far easier than setting one while you do not.

You can also remove saved payment methods, which turns an impulse purchase back into a deliberate one.

In the United States, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 on 1-800-522-4700, by text on the same number, and through chat at ncpgambling.org. Gamblers Anonymous runs free local and online meetings at gamblersanonymous.org. Gam-Anon supports family members.

If you are in immediate crisis, call or text 988 in the US to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.