Responsible Gambling

The majority of people who gamble do so without issues. However, the nature of gambling, combined with its widespread accessibility, makes it easy for some to develop problems or even addictions. Understanding responsible gambling can help avoid these risks.

Gambling responsibly and safely is key to ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience. This guide offers the information and advice you need to maintain a healthy relationship with gambling and explains what to do if gambling starts to become a problem.

What Is Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling is about making informed and conscious decisions. You should carefully consider the amount of time and money you spend gambling, and manage your activities accordingly. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose, and make sure it never takes over your life.

The two key principles of responsible gambling are:

• Self-Control: Discipline is essential to prevent your gambling habits from becoming excessive.
• Awareness: Being mindful of your gambling behaviours and their potential impact on your life and relationships.

By staying in control and aware, you increase your chances of enjoying a safe, fun gambling experience. This isn’t always easy, but it's important to try. Below are some helpful tips to guide you.

How to Gamble Responsibly

The following tips may seem straightforward, but they are essential for maintaining a balanced approach to gambling:

Here’s what we recommend:

• Treat Gambling as Entertainment: Winning is exciting, but the main goal should be fun. View losses as part of the entertainment.
• Set Spend Limits: Determine in advance how much you are willing to spend per session, day, week, or month—and stick to those limits.
• Spend According to Finances: Ensure your spending reflects what you can afford to lose. Never use money needed for essentials.
• Avoid Chasing Losses: Once money is lost, it’s gone. Don’t gamble more to try to win it back.
• Set Time Limits: Decide how long you’ll play before you start, and stop when that time is up, regardless of whether you’re winning or losing.
• Take Regular Breaks: Avoid long, unbroken gambling sessions. Make sure you take regular breaks and have days without any gambling at all.
• Consider Your Mood: Avoid gambling when you're upset, angry, or stressed. It’s best to play when you're in a positive state of mind.
• Stay Sober: Avoid gambling under the influence of substances, as they can impair your judgment and control.

Online Casinos and Responsible Gambling

Online casinos and gambling sites have both moral and regulatory responsibilities to promote responsible gambling. While it is ultimately up to you to make responsible choices, the casinos also play a role in providing a safe and supportive environment.

Here are some of the ways online casinos promote responsible gambling:

• Age Verification: Processes like Know Your Customer (KYC) ensure that only those of legal age are able to access gambling services.
• Behaviour Monitoring: Advanced technology helps casinos track player activity and identify signs of problematic gambling. They can then offer support or restrict access.
• Player Tools: Many casinos offer tools such as session limits, deposit limits, and self-exclusion options to help players manage their gambling habits.
• Support Services: Casinos often employ staff trained in gambling addiction to offer direct support and guidance to players.

How to Recognise a Gambling Problem

Gambling problems can develop gradually, often without you noticing. This is why it’s important to regularly review your gambling habits and be aware of any potential signs of them getting out of control.

Look out for these common signs:

• Preoccupation With Gambling: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning your next session.
• Increasing Stakes: Needing to bet more money to experience the same excitement.
• Difficulty Stopping: Struggling to stop or cut back on gambling.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling irritable or restless when not gambling.
• Emotional Gambling: Gambling to escape from personal problems or negative emotions.
• Deceptive Behaviour: Lying about your gambling activities to friends or family.
• Neglecting Obligations: Ignoring responsibilities at work or at home because of gambling.
• Financial Issues: Borrowing money or incurring debt due to gambling.

If you recognise any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Even if you don’t believe you have a problem, take a step back and evaluate the impact of gambling on your life.

Dealing With Problem Gambling

If you’ve recognized that your gambling is becoming a problem, it's crucial to take action immediately. The sooner you address the issue, the sooner you can begin the road to recovery. While it may be a challenging journey, taking the first step is key to turning things around.

The first step is to stop gambling completely. This may not be easy, but it is essential. You need time to assess your situation and begin finding the solutions that will work for you. If stopping on your own proves difficult, remember that help is available.

One of the most effective ways to stop gambling is by self-excluding from the online casinos you use. Self-exclusion prevents you from depositing and playing, even if the temptation arises. You can choose to exclude yourself for a set period or permanently.

Talking to someone you trust can also be incredibly helpful. Don’t assume that friends or family will judge you or treat you differently. In fact, most people will be proud of you for recognizing the issue and trying to tackle it head-on.

Opening up to a friend or family member can provide significant relief. Even if they can’t offer practical solutions, their emotional support and solidarity can help you gain clarity and start planning the next steps.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone close to you, professional help is available. There are many organizations that specialize in problem gambling and addiction. Reaching out to them can provide immediate support and guide you through recovery.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of problem gambling resources, featuring contact information for various organizations globally. These organizations offer hotlines and helplines that provide the support you need right away.

Helping Someone With Their Gambling Problem

Supporting someone with a gambling problem can be challenging, especially if they are unaware of the problem or are in denial. Taking on this responsibility can feel overwhelming, but your involvement can make a significant difference in preventing further harm.

If you suspect someone you know has a gambling problem and want to help, it’s important to approach the situation with care. They may be embarrassed or ashamed, so it’s crucial to speak to them calmly, privately, and with empathy. Express your concerns without accusing them, and let them know that you’re there to support them.

Getting someone to open up to you is just the first step. Whether they come to you for help or you approach them, you’ll need to be careful with how you continue the conversation. It’s essential to know when to listen and when to speak, and it’s just as important to know *what* to say.

There’s no single “right” way to help someone, as each situation is unique. However, one important rule is to avoid passing judgment or criticizing them. They are likely feeling immense guilt, and your support should focus on understanding, not blame.

Summary

Gambling can be a fun and enjoyable activity when done responsibly. By making informed decisions, setting clear limits, and remaining mindful of your habits, you can ensure that gambling stays a positive part of your life without leading to negative consequences. Self-control and awareness are the cornerstones of safe gambling.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, don’t hesitate to seek help. There are numerous resources and organizations available that can support you through the recovery process. Taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier, more balanced relationship with gambling tomorrow.

Stay informed, stay in control, and gamble responsibly.