Some people become depressed after winning the lottery. There are some who turn to gambling and alcohol to cope with their overwhelming emotions. But others are happy with their newfound fortune. One couple who won a $61 million lottery jackpot went on to spend the money on a new home, vintage cars, and ocean cruises. The Harrigs stayed the same, though, and they still attend church and keep in touch with their family. Erica also teaches her children about hard work.

Super-sized jackpots also drive sales and attract free publicity on newscasts and websites. Moreover, larger jackpots encourage players to stake more money and thus increase the chances of jackpot carryover. This, in turn, increases public interest in lottery games and drives sales. However, there are some people who have made huge mistakes after winning the lottery.

If you do win the lottery, it is imperative that you protect your identity. Taking the time to protect your identity will help protect your prize money from scammers. Also, you can protect your long lost friends and family from finding out about your new wealth. However, you should always seek professional advice before claiming your prize.

After winning the lottery, you will have many decisions to make. You can opt for a lump sum payout, which is the most common option, or you can opt for an annuity, which gives you a steady income over a period of twenty to thirty years. The annuity option is less exciting upfront, but it is more flexible and allows you to budget your money. Moreover, it allows you to make investments in stocks and real estate.