Responsible Gaming
Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money or escape problems. Here's how to stay in control and where to get help if you need it.
If You Need Help Now
- UK: BeGambleAware - 0808 8020 133
- US: National Council on Problem Gambling - 1-800-522-4700
- International: Gamblers Anonymous
These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Signs of Problem Gambling
Be honest with yourself. If any of these apply, consider taking a break:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
- Chasing losses — betting more to try to win back what you lost
- Borrowing money or selling things to gamble
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
- Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble
- Risking important relationships, jobs, or opportunities because of gambling
- Needing to bet larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
One or two of these occasionally isn't necessarily a crisis, but multiple warning signs suggest it's time to step back and reassess.
How to Stay in Control
Set Limits Before You Play
Decide how much money and time you're willing to spend before you start. When you hit your limit, stop. No exceptions.
Use Casino Deposit Limits
Most casinos let you set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits. Set these lower than you think you need — it's easier to raise them later than to recover lost money.
Never Chase Losses
If you've lost your budget, stop. The game doesn't know you've been losing. Betting more won't change the odds.
Don't Gamble When Emotional
Stressed, angry, depressed, drunk? Don't gamble. Bad decisions get made when emotions are high or judgment is impaired.
Take Regular Breaks
Set a timer. Every 30-60 minutes, step away from the screen. Check how much you've spent. Decide consciously whether to continue.
Keep Gambling Separate
Gambling money should come from your entertainment budget — not rent, bills, or savings. If you can't separate them, don't gamble.
Self-Exclusion Options
If you need to take a break, self-exclusion tools can help:
Casino Self-Exclusion
Most casinos offer temporary (24 hours to 6 months) or permanent self-exclusion. Contact customer support to request it. During exclusion, you won't be able to access your account or deposit.
Third-Party Blocking
- GamStop (UK) - Blocks all licensed UK gambling sites
- Gamban - Software that blocks gambling sites on your devices
- BetBlocker - Free blocking app for all devices
Financial Controls
- Ask your bank to block gambling transactions
- Give a trusted person control of your finances temporarily
- Remove saved payment methods from gambling sites
Professional Help Resources
| Organization | Region | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| BeGambleAware | UK | 0808 8020 133 (24/7) |
| NCPG | US | 1-800-522-4700 |
| Gamblers Anonymous | International | Local meetings worldwide |
| GamCare | UK | 0808 8020 133 |
| Gambling Therapy | International | Online support |
These services are free and confidential. They won't judge you — their purpose is to help.
My Commitment to Responsible Content
As someone who writes about gambling, I take responsibility seriously:
- I'm honest about the house edge — you will lose money over time
- I recommend demo mode first so you can learn without financial risk
- I explain wagering requirements so bonuses aren't misleading
- I include responsible gaming links on every page
- I don't promise winning strategies because they don't exist
Gambling can be entertaining when done responsibly. But if it stops being fun — if it becomes stressful, if you're hiding it, if it's affecting your life — please stop and seek help.