Responsible Gambling
Our goal is to educate people about the potential risks of online gaming, even though it’s meant to be just for fun. Some individuals have difficulty stopping once they start, which can lead to negative outcomes in their personal life, finances, and relationships. When players go beyond their limits, they may not even realize it, which can result in problem gaming behavior.
Dealing with a gambling problem is possible if you follow responsible gambling practices. Acknowledging that you have a problem is the first step towards addressing it quickly and reliably. Anyone can experience gambling issues, but following these practices can help make the process painless.
Do I Have a Gambling Problem?
It’s quite simple to determine whether you have problematic gambling behavior. Just answer a basic questionnaire truthfully. The results will provide you with reliable information to help you address any concerns you may have regarding gaming:
- Do you prioritize gambling over your social, personal, or professional responsibilities?
- Do you experience the urge to bet again, even after losing?
- Are you frequently thinking about gambling?
- Do you have the urge to gamble during unconventional hours?
- Have you neglected any other area of your life to gamble?
- Have you ever felt tempted to steal or lie to keep gambling?
- Do you engage in gambling activities beyond your financial capabilities or spend more than you can realistically afford on any other hobby?
- Have you ever purchased loans or sold things to fund your gambling account and keep playing?
- Have you ever concealed or misreported that you gamble to other people?
- Have you ever experienced the urge to keep trying to win back your losses for an extended period?
The above pointers can assist you in identifying a problem and catching it early. Although some people may feel that the questionnaire instills shame, it’s designed to be a helpful tool to address issues early on. You shouldn’t feel ashamed, anxious, or stigmatized by it, and there’s no reason to.
What Should I Do If I Have a Gambling Addiction Problem?
If you have a gambling problem, don’t panic. There are proven methods available to help you find assistance. Some people with gambling problems fear being judged, but sustainable gambling practices are encouraged, and support is available for those who need it. What steps can you take to address the problem?
Find a help-line
Numerous phone help lines offer understanding, support, and, most importantly, the chance to seek advice anonymously. Many prefer to maintain confidentiality until they are ready to reveal their issues to someone else.
Sign yourself up for a support group
Participating in support groups can offer emotional support and the reassurance that you’re not alone. These groups use proven methods to reach goals such as maintaining sobriety. It’s important to remember that while some individuals may be more susceptible to addiction, with proper control and awareness, addiction can be managed effectively.
Set a goal to become a sponsor
Helping others can benefit those dealing with addiction by giving them added responsibility. This is because taking care of others is a behavior that has evolved to be successful, as seen in motherhood and fatherhood. Sponsors are less likely to gamble because they find fulfillment in helping others.
How Can I Avoid Falling Victim to Problem Gambling?
Establishing healthy habits is important, similar to how brushing your teeth can prevent cavities. By teaching yourself these habits and setting basic rules at the beginning of your gaming sessions, you can play at a reasonable and controlled pace without compromising your well-being. The following strategies are typically considered effective for promoting a healthy and sustainable approach to gaming.
Set deposit limit
To keep better track of your spending, set a monthly deposit limit. This will ensure that you remain in control of your expenses.
Play on a budget
A budget can help manage your spending, similar to a deposit limit. With a fixed budget, you may need to be more creative with how you enjoy your leisure activities to make the most of your money.
Take a break
If you’ve been playing games for a while and feel like you need a break, taking one is okay. You can take a break for a few hours, a day, or even a week. Remember, you’re the one who decides how much time you spend playing.
Self-exclude
If you tend to develop addictions easily, you can choose to self-exclude from activities that could be potentially harmful to ensure that you won’t have to deal with the consequences of indulging in them.
Don’t overspend
It is essential to be aware of your gaming budget. Consider and compare the amount of money you would typically spend on activities like dining out, buying clothes, and purchasing board games or video games. If you spend more on gambling than these activities, it might be wise to reduce your expenses.
Don’t AFK play
It’s best to avoid relying too much on the autoplay feature and being AFK to maximize your game time and avoid exceeding your limits. Instead, actively engage in the game and maximize your experience.