Responsible Gambling

Here are some essential guidelines for approaching gambling responsibly:

• View gambling as a form of entertainment, not a means of income.
• Never wager more than you can comfortably afford to lose.
• Establish predefined financial limits for each gaming session.
• Avoid the temptation to chase losses by betting recklessly.
• Take regular breaks between gaming sessions to maintain perspective.
• Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or any impairing substances.
• Refrain from gambling when experiencing strong negative emotions or distress.
• Engage in gambling with knowledge and understanding of the games you play.
• Ensure that your gambling activities do not interfere with your daily responsibilities.
• Maintain a healthy balance by pursuing other interests and hobbies.
• Keep a meticulous record of the time and money you invest in gambling.
• If you suspect gambling addiction, seek assistance from organizations like BeGambleAware, Gamblers Anonymous, GamCare, and Gam-Anon.

Recognizing Signs of Gambling Addiction

It's crucial to be aware of warning signs that may indicate a gambling addiction. Consider the following questions to assess your gambling behavior:

• Do you skip work or school to engage in gambling activities?
• Do you turn to gambling as an escape from life's problems, such as boredom or family issues?
• If you run out of funds while gambling, do you feel desperate and driven to obtain money for immediate gambling?
• After experiencing losses, do you feel compelled to try and recover your losses right away?
• Have you ever resorted to lying, stealing, or borrowing money to fund gambling or settle gambling debts?
• Have you concealed the amount of money or time spent on gambling by lying?
• Do you gamble until you've exhausted your last financial resources, even if it means lacking money for essential expenses like transportation or food?
• Have you accumulated debts as a result of your gambling activities?
• Have others criticized your gambling behavior or expressed concerns about it?
• Do you resist spending money on anything other than gambling?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends, or previous hobbies and interests?
• Do you prioritize gambling over your relationships with family and loved ones?
• Do arguments, frustrations, or disappointments compel you to continue gambling?
• Have you experienced feelings of depression or thoughts of suicide related to gambling?

Gambling Organizations

If you answer "yes" to any of the above questions, contact: BeGambleAware, Gamblers Anonymous, GamCare, and Gam-Anon.

Main Gambling Organizations

Organizations Testing and Certifying Fairness