Responsible Gambling

Gambling sure is one of the most thrilling endeavors there is. The excitement of placing a bet and anticipating its outcome is simply fun!

But with great fun, comes great responsibility. Responsible gambling is being mindful of our actions while gambling to prevent or reduce potential gambling-related harm such as addiction and fraudulent behavior.

Here are ways to ensure that you are gambling responsibly:

Responsible Gambling

  • Know how the game or bet works before gambling. Likewise, learn about the companies, establishments, platforms or apps you intend to gamble on. Do your research.

  • Set spending and time limits and strictly follow them. Know when to stop.

  • Gambling is a game of streaks. Ride a winning streak as far as it can take you but get some fresh air or get a glass of your favorite juice when things go downhill. Take frequent breaks and create a balance.

  • Gamble with a bankroll that you can afford. Don't gamble with your savings or money intended for rent or food. Never borrow to gamble.

  • Gambling is a great venue for entertainment, but avoid gambling when you're deeply upset or stressed. Likewise, avoid gambling under the influence of alcohol or any other substance.

  • Lastly, if it's not as fun as it used to, just stop.

As fun and exciting as gambling is, there may be times when it adversely affects your life. If you have experienced any of the following, your gambling may be showing signs of becoming a problem:

  • Spent more than you what you intended to on your bankroll.

  • Struggled to find the money for essentials like food, utilities or rent.

  • Taken out loans to cover gambling debts.

  • Argued more and more with your partner or family, particularly about money.

  • Continuously preoccupied with gambling and finding it difficult to focus on work, school or other things.

  • Spent less and less time with friends and family and more and more time gambling.

  • Lied or hid your losses to friends and family.

  • Stole money from friends or family to fund your bankroll.

 Responsible Gambling

If think you have a gambling problem, here are some organizations that offer free help:

GamblersAnonymous.org GamblersAnonymous.org
A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.
NCPGambling.org NCPGambling.org
Assists people and families affected by problem gambling. Their vision is to improve health and wellness by reducing the personal, social and economic costs of problem gambling. They provide call, chat and text hotlines.