Principles of Responsible Gaming

Gamble for Fun

Gambling should be entertainment, like going to a movie or concert. Never gamble to make money or solve financial problems.

Set Limits

Decide in advance how much time and money you can afford to spend, and stick to those limits no matter what happens.

Stay Informed

Understand the odds, house edge, and that losses are more likely than wins. Knowledge helps you make better decisions.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Early Warning Signs

Initial signs that gambling may be becoming a problem

  • ⚠️ Betting more money than originally planned
  • ⚠️ Spending more time gambling than intended
  • ⚠️ Thinking about gambling frequently
  • ⚠️ Feeling excited about gambling wins but frustrated by losses
  • ⚠️ Borrowing money to gamble occasionally

Moderate Warning Signs

More serious signs requiring immediate attention

  • 🚨 Lying about gambling activities to family/friends
  • 🚨 Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
  • 🚨 Chasing losses with bigger bets
  • 🚨 Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities
  • 🚨 Feeling anxious when unable to gamble

Critical Warning Signs

Severe signs requiring professional help immediately

  • 🔴 Unable to stop gambling despite wanting to
  • 🔴 Gambling with money needed for essentials
  • 🔴 Stealing or illegal activities to fund gambling
  • 🔴 Severe relationship and financial problems
  • 🔴 Thoughts of self-harm due to gambling

If You Need Help NOW

Problem Gambling Helpline:

1-800-522-4700

Crisis/Suicide Prevention:

988

Support Resources

National Council on Problem Gambling

24/7 confidential helpline and online resources

Phone:

1-800-522-4700

Website:

ncpgambling.org

Services:

  • Crisis counseling
  • Referrals to local treatment
  • Online chat support

Gamblers Anonymous

12-step recovery program with local meetings

Phone:

Varies by location

Website:

gamblersanonymous.org

Services:

  • Support group meetings
  • Sponsorship program
  • Online meetings available

GamCare (UK)

UK-based gambling support and treatment

Phone:

0808 8020 133

Website:

gamcare.org.uk

Services:

  • Live chat support
  • Treatment services
  • Family support

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

24/7 crisis support for those in emotional distress

Phone:

988

Website:

suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Services:

  • Crisis intervention
  • Emotional support
  • Local referrals

Tools to Help You Stay in Control

Self-Exclusion

Voluntarily ban yourself from gambling sites and venues for a set period.

  • Available on most betting sites
  • Can be temporary or permanent
  • Includes cooling-off periods

Deposit Limits

Set maximum amounts you can deposit in a day, week, or month.

  • Automatic enforcement
  • Can only be decreased immediately
  • Increases have waiting periods

Reality Checks

Regular pop-ups showing how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent.

  • Customizable time intervals
  • Shows session duration
  • Displays spending amounts

🔞 You must be 21+ years old to gamble. This page is for educational purposes only.

📞 Need Help? Call the Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700