Responsible Gaming: Know the Risks
Gambling should be entertainment, not a source of income. Learn to recognize problem gambling signs and get help when needed.
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
Gambling is designed for entertainment, not as a way to make money. The house edge ensures that casinos profit over time. Understanding this is important for responsible play.
Important Facts
- Gambling is not an investment or income source
- The house always has a mathematical advantage
- Long-term losses are expected, not wins
- Never gamble with money you can't afford to lose
- Set limits before you start playing
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing problem gambling early is important. If you experience any of these signs, seek help immediately:
Chasing Losses
Continuing to gamble to "win back" money you've lost. This is a dangerous pattern that leads to bigger losses.
Gambling with Money You Can't Afford
Using money meant for bills, rent, or essentials. Borrowing money to gamble. This indicates a serious problem.
Hiding Gambling from Family
Lying about gambling activities, hiding losses, or being secretive about time spent gambling.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Missing work, ignoring family obligations, or neglecting personal care due to gambling.
Feeling Restless or Irritable When Not Gambling
Gambling becomes a compulsion rather than entertainment. You feel you need to gamble.
Unable to Stop or Control Gambling
Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop but being unable to do so. Loss of control is a key warning sign.
Self-Assessment
Take an honest assessment of your gambling habits. Ask yourself:
- Do I gamble more than I can afford to lose?
- Do I need to gamble with increasing amounts to feel excitement?
- Have I tried to cut back or stop but couldn't?
- Do I feel restless or irritable when trying to stop?
- Do I gamble to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness?
- Have I lied to family or friends about my gambling?
- Have I jeopardized relationships or opportunities because of gambling?
If you answered "yes" to several questions, you may have a gambling problem. Seek help immediately.
Professional Assessment: Visit BeGambleAware.org for a complete self-assessment tool.
Setting Limits
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits before you start gambling. Most casinos offer responsible gambling tools to set these limits. Once set, they cannot be increased immediately (usually requires a cooling-off period).
Time Limits
Set time limits for gambling sessions. Use alarms or timers to remind yourself when to stop. Take regular breaks.
Loss Limits
Decide in advance how much you're willing to lose in a session. Stop immediately when you reach this limit. Never chase losses.
Self-Exclusion
If you're struggling with gambling, use self-exclusion tools. Most casinos offer temporary or permanent self-exclusion options. You can also use services like:
- GAMSTOP: Self-exclusion scheme for UK players (www.gamstop.co.uk)
- Casino self-exclusion: Contact casino support to request self-exclusion
Getting Help
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. These organizations provide free, confidential support:
BeGambleAware
Website: www.begambleaware.org
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (UK, free and confidential)
Free support, advice, and treatment for problem gambling. Available 24/7.
GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Helpline: 0808 8020 133
Free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org
12-step recovery program for problem gamblers. Find local meetings and support groups.
National Problem Gambling Helpline (US)
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Free, confidential support 24/7 for problem gambling in the United States.
For Family and Friends
If someone you know has a gambling problem:
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Don't enable their gambling (don't lend money or pay debts)
- Seek support for yourself (GamAnon for family members)
- Be patient and understanding, but set boundaries
Age Restrictions
Gambling is restricted to adults only. You must be 18 or older (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to gamble. Never allow minors to access gambling sites or apps.