Responsible Gambling Guide
Gambling should be entertaining, not a source of stress. This guide provides tools, resources, and support to help you stay in control and recognize when it's time to seek help.
Set Limits
Never gamble more than you can afford to lose
Time Boundaries
Set time limits and stick to them
Clear Mind
Never gamble when emotional or intoxicated
Seek Help
It's okay to ask for support
Recognizing Problem Gambling
If you identify with several of these warning signs, it may be time to reassess your gambling habits.
Spending more money than you can afford to lose
Chasing losses by betting more to recover money
Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities
Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
Lying to family members about gambling habits
Gambling to escape problems or relieve anxiety
Needing to bet larger amounts for the same excitement
Important Note
Problem gambling is a recognized mental health condition. It's not a character flaw or a sign of weakness. Like any health condition, it can be treated with proper support. If you're struggling, please reach out to one of the organizations listed below.
Self-Help Tools & Strategies
Most reputable casinos offer these tools. Use them proactively to maintain control.
Deposit Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit. Most reputable casinos offer this feature in your account settings.
Pro Tip: Start with a weekly limit that matches your entertainment budget - treat it like a cinema or dining out expense.
Loss Limits
Automatically stop playing when you reach a predetermined loss amount. This prevents the dangerous "chasing losses" behavior.
Pro Tip: Set a loss limit of 50% of your session bankroll to ensure you always have funds for another session.
Session Time Limits
Set reminders or automatic logouts after a certain time period. Extended sessions often lead to poor decision-making.
Pro Tip: The sweet spot is 1-2 hours. After that, take at least a 30-minute break.
Reality Checks
Enable pop-up notifications showing your time played and current balance. Many casinos offer these at 30, 60, or 90-minute intervals.
Pro Tip: Set reality checks to appear every 30 minutes with your net position displayed.
Cool-Off Periods
Take a temporary break from gambling for 24 hours to 6 weeks. Your account is frozen but not closed.
Pro Tip: Use a 24-hour cool-off after any losing session that exceeds your planned limit.
Self-Exclusion
Permanently or semi-permanently exclude yourself from gambling. Services like GamStop (UK) cover all licensed operators.
Pro Tip: This is for serious situations. GamStop exclusion periods are 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
Professional Support Organizations
These organizations provide free, confidential support for problem gambling.
GamCare
UKFree information, support and counselling for problem gamblers in the UK. 24/7 helpline available.
BeGambleAware
UKIndependent charity providing treatment and support services funded by the gambling industry.
GamStop
UKFree self-exclusion service that allows you to restrict your online gambling activities across all UKGC-licensed sites.
Gamblers Anonymous
WorldwideFellowship of men and women who share experience to help each other recover from gambling problems.
National Council on Problem Gambling
USA24/7 confidential helpline for problem gamblers in the United States.
Gambling Therapy
WorldwideFree online support and practical advice for anyone affected by problem gambling.
Need Immediate Help?
If you're in crisis or need to talk to someone right now: