Recognizing Problem Gambling

Signs of Problem Gambling:

• Preoccupation with gambling (e.g., constantly planning or thinking about gambling).
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
• Restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
• Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
• Gambling to escape from problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
• Chasing losses (trying to get back money lost through gambling).
• Lying to family members or others to hide the extent of gambling.
• Jeopardizing or losing significant relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities because of gambling.
• Relying on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

How to Play Responsibly

Tips for Responsible Gambling:

• Set Limits: Decide how much time and money you can afford to spend on gambling and stick to those limits.
• Budget: Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Never use money needed for essentials like rent, bills, or groceries.
• Avoid Chasing Losses: Accept that losing is a part of gambling. Chasing losses often leads to bigger losses.
• Take Breaks: Take regular breaks to ensure gambling doesn’t consume too much of your time.
• Balance with Other Activities: Make sure gambling is not your only hobby. Maintain a balanced life with other interests and activities.
• Avoid Gambling Under Influence: Don’t gamble when under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or when you are feeling stressed or upset.
• Use Self-Exclusion Tools: Many gambling sites offer self-exclusion tools to help you take a break from gambling.

Managing Gambling Habits

Practical Steps to Manage Gambling:

• Track Your Spending: Keep a record of how much you spend on gambling.
• Set Personal Limits: Use tools provided by gambling sites to set deposit limits, loss limits, and time limits.
• Seek Support: Talk to friends or family about your gambling habits.
• Self-Assessment: Take regular self-assessment tests to evaluate your gambling behavior.

Where to Seek Help and Advice

United Kingdom:

• GamCare
  • Website: GamCare
  • Helpline: 0808 8020 133
  • Live Chat: Available on their website
• BeGambleAware
  • Website: BeGambleAware
  • Helpline: 0808 8020 133
  • Live Chat: Available on their website
• Gambling Therapy
  • Website: Gambling Therapy
  • Online Support: Available on their website

United States:

• National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
  • Website: NCPG
  • Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
  • Text: 1-800-522-4700
• Gamblers Anonymous
  • Website: Gamblers Anonymous
  • Meetings: Information available on their website
• Gam-Anon (for family and friends of gamblers)
  • Website: Gam-Anon
  • Meetings: Information available on their website

European Union:

• GamCare (Available in EU)
  • Website: GamCare
  • Helpline: +44 808 8020 133
  • Live Chat: Available on their website
• Gambling Therapy
  • Website: Gambling Therapy
  • Online Support: Available on their website
• European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA)
  • Website: EGBA
  • Email: [email protected]

Responsible gambling ensures that gambling remains an enjoyable activity. Recognizing the signs of problem gambling and knowing where to seek help can prevent gambling from becoming a problem. Always set limits, manage your gambling habits, and seek support when needed. By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources provided, you can maintain a healthy relationship with gambling. Remember, help is always available if you need it!