Responsible Gambling

Gambling is for Adults Only

Gambling activities are intended for individuals who are 18 years of age or older, or who meet the legal age requirement in their specific jurisdiction. It is illegal for minors to gamble. Age checks and access controls, where available, are handled by the destination gambling platform.

If you are underage, or if you suspect someone underage is attempting to gamble, it is important to seek assistance to prevent such activity. Responsible gambling begins with adherence to legal age restrictions.

Setting Personal Limits Before Engagement

Before engaging in any gambling activity on a destination platform, it is advisable to establish clear personal limits. These limits should encompass financial expenditure, time spent, and frequency of play. Setting these boundaries beforehand can help maintain control.

Many destination gambling platforms provide tools to help users set and enforce these limits, such as deposit limits, loss limits, session time limits, and self-exclusion options. Utilize these features as part of a responsible approach.

• Establish a clear budget for gambling and adhere to it.
• Set time limits for each gambling session.
• Avoid chasing losses by increasing stakes.
• Never gamble with funds allocated for essential expenses.

Recognizing Warning Signs

It is important to be aware of potential warning signs that gambling may be becoming problematic. These signs can manifest in various aspects of an individual's life, including financial, emotional, and social areas. Early recognition can facilitate intervention.

If you or someone you know exhibits several of these signs, consider seeking support. Problem gambling is a recognized issue that can affect individuals and their families.

• Spending more money or time on gambling than intended.
• Feeling the need to be secretive about gambling activities.
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to gambling.
• Gambling to escape from problems or feelings of anxiety/depression.
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.
• Experiencing relationship issues due to gambling.

Utilizing Platform Tools for Control

Destination gambling platforms are typically required to offer various tools designed to support responsible gambling. These tools empower individuals to manage their activity proactively. Familiarize yourself with and utilize these features.

These tools are designed to be user-initiated and provide a framework for self-management. They can be crucial in preventing gambling from becoming problematic.

• Deposit limits: Restrict the amount of money that can be deposited over a period.
• Loss limits: Set a maximum amount that can be lost within a specific timeframe.
• Session limits: Cap the duration of gambling sessions.
• Time-outs: Short breaks from gambling, typically for 24 hours to several weeks.
• Self-exclusion: A longer-term ban from gambling on a specific platform or across multiple platforms.

Steps When Risk Rises

If you identify that your gambling behavior is becoming problematic, or if others express concern, taking immediate steps is important. This may involve a combination of self-help and seeking professional assistance.

Do not hesitate to reach out for support. Many organizations specialize in providing confidential help and resources for individuals affected by problem gambling.

• Implement self-exclusion from all gambling platforms.
• Discuss concerns with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional.
• Seek counseling or therapy specializing in gambling issues.
• Join support groups where individuals share experiences and strategies.

Support Resources (Including Australian Context)

Various organizations offer support and resources for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm. These services are often confidential and accessible through helplines, websites, and in-person counseling.

In Australia, specific services are available to provide assistance. These include national and state-based support lines and counseling services that understand the local context of gambling and its impact.

• Gambling Help Online (Australia): A national service offering confidential support and counseling.
• Lifeline (Australia): Provides crisis support and suicide prevention services, including issues related to gambling.
• Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of individuals who share their experience, strength, and hope.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): Offers a helpline and resources for problem gambling.
• GamCare (UK): Provides support, information, and advice for those experiencing gambling-related harm.

No Expectation of Income

Gambling should not be viewed as a source of income or a way to recover financial losses. It is a form of entertainment with inherent risks, and outcomes are determined by chance. There is no guarantee of winning.

Approach gambling with realistic expectations and an understanding that losses are a potential outcome. Financial planning should not incorporate expected winnings from gambling.