Responsible Gambling

For the majority of Aussies, gambling is just a bit of fun. However, with the accessibility of online gambling, some individuals can face serious problems, including addiction. Understanding the principles of responsible gambling is essential in managing the risks involved.

Gambling responsibly is the key to enjoying the experience safely. This guide offers essential tips and advice to ensure your gambling remains enjoyable and manageable, and what to do if it begins to spiral out of control.

What Does Responsible Gambling Mean?

Responsible gambling is about making informed choices when it comes to your time and money. Always ensure that you only gamble with what you can afford to lose, and that it doesn't interfere with your everyday life or relationships.

The two key principles of responsible gambling are:

• Self-Control: It’s important to keep your gambling habits in check through personal discipline.
• Awareness: Be conscious of how gambling is affecting your life, both positively and negatively.

By keeping these principles in mind, you can continue enjoying gambling safely. It may be challenging at times, but taking control is crucial. Here are some helpful tips to keep you on track.

Practical Tips for Responsible Gambling

While these suggestions may seem straightforward, they are essential for maintaining balance in your gambling activities:

Here’s what we recommend:

• View Gambling as Entertainment: The main goal is enjoyment. Treat any losses as part of the experience, not as something to recover.
• Set a Budget: Decide on a specific amount to spend per gambling session, day, week, or month, and stick to it.
• Only Gamble What You Can Afford: Only use money that won’t affect your ability to pay for essentials like food and bills.
• Don't Chase Losses: Once money is lost, it’s gone. Avoid the temptation to gamble more to make up for it.
• Set Time Limits: Decide how much time you want to spend gambling, and stick to it, regardless of wins or losses.
• Take Regular Breaks: Long gambling sessions can be dangerous. Take regular breaks, and consider having days without gambling.
• Mind Your Mood: Avoid gambling when you're stressed, angry, or upset. Play when you're in a positive state of mind.
• Stay Sober: Never gamble under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as they can cloud your judgment.

Online Gambling and Responsible Play

Online casinos have a responsibility to support responsible gambling. While the ultimate responsibility lies with you, these casinos play a role in maintaining a safe environment for players.

Here’s how online gambling platforms promote responsible gaming:

• Age Verification: Platforms use Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to ensure that only individuals of legal age are allowed to gamble.
• Monitoring Player Behaviour: Casinos use advanced technology to monitor player activity and identify signs of problematic gambling. They can then offer assistance or limit access.
• Gambling Tools: Many online casinos provide features like deposit limits, session timeouts, and self-exclusion options to help you control your gambling habits.
• Support and Help: Online casinos often employ trained professionals who can provide advice and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

Identifying a Gambling Problem

Problem gambling can develop gradually. It’s essential to regularly check in on your gambling habits and be mindful of warning signs that may indicate an issue.

Watch out for these signs:

• Obsessing Over Gambling: Constantly thinking about your next session or the money you’ve spent.
• Increasing Bets: Feeling the need to bet more money to experience the same thrill.
• Inability to Stop: Struggling to control or reduce the time spent gambling.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling irritable or anxious when not gambling.
• Using Gambling to Cope: Turning to gambling as a way to escape stress or negative feelings.
• Being Dishonest: Hiding gambling activity or lying to friends or family about your habits.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Letting gambling interfere with work, family, or other important aspects of life.
• Financial Struggles: Borrowing money or getting into debt due to gambling losses.

If you spot any of these signs in your own behaviour or in someone else, it’s crucial not to ignore them. Take a step back and honestly assess how gambling is affecting your life.

How to Tackle a Gambling Problem

If you’ve realised that gambling has become a problem, the best course of action is to address it immediately. The sooner you act, the quicker you can get back on track.

Start by stopping gambling altogether. This might feel difficult, but it’s a necessary step. It’s essential to give yourself time to reflect and find solutions that suit you. If you find it tough to quit on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

One way to quit gambling is through self-exclusion. This tool allows you to block your access to online casinos, making it harder to continue gambling even if you’re tempted. You can choose a temporary or permanent exclusion, depending on your situation.

Talking to a friend or family member you trust can be incredibly helpful. Most people will appreciate your honesty and want to support you, not judge you.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone close to you, there are professionals available who can help. Many organisations specialise in supporting people with gambling problems and can provide immediate assistance.

For further help, check out our list of problem gambling resources that include contact details for international and Australian support organisations.

Supporting Someone With a Gambling Problem

If someone you know is struggling with gambling, it can be challenging, especially if they don’t acknowledge the problem. Your support can play a crucial role in their recovery journey.

Approach the situation gently, with care and empathy. If they’re in denial or feeling embarrassed, it’s important to talk to them in a private and understanding way. Express your concerns without blame, and let them know you’re there to support them through their struggles.

It’s essential to be patient. Whether they approach you for help or you initiate the conversation, listening and offering understanding is crucial. Avoid criticizing them, as they may already be feeling immense guilt.

Conclusion

Gambling can be a fun and enjoyable activity when done responsibly. By making informed decisions, setting clear limits, and being aware of your habits, you can ensure that gambling remains a positive experience in your life.

If you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Support is available, and the sooner you seek assistance, the sooner you can begin the recovery process.

Stay informed, stay mindful, and most importantly, gamble responsibly.