Key Principles of Responsible Gambling

1. Set Limits Before You Start
   • Decide on a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
   
   
   • Set a time limit for how long you’ll play.
   
   
   • Never gamble with money meant for essentials like rent or bills.

1. Know the Odds
   • Understand that gambling is based on chance, not skill. The house always has an edge.
   
   
   • Don’t fall for the "gambler’s fallacy"—believing that past outcomes affect future results.

1. Don’t Chase Losses
   • Accept that losing is part of gambling. Trying to win back losses often leads to bigger losses.
   
   
   • Walk away when you reach your limit, even if you’re tempted to keep going.

1. Gamble for Fun, Not Profit
   • Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money.
   
   
   • If you’re not enjoying it, stop.

1. Avoid Gambling When Emotional
   • Don’t gamble to cope with stress, sadness, or anger. It can lead to impulsive decisions.

1. Take Breaks and Stay Balanced
   • Gambling shouldn’t interfere with your daily life, relationships, or responsibilities.
   
   
   • If you’re spending too much time or money, it’s a sign to step back.

Tools and Resources to Help You Gamble Responsibly

• Deposit and Time Limits
  Many gambling sites let you set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on deposits and time spent playing. Use these to stay within your budget.

• Self-Exclusion
  If you need a break, self-exclusion programs allow you to block access to gambling sites or venues for a set period.

• Reality Checks
  Some platforms send reminders of how long you’ve been playing. These can help you stay aware of time spent.

• Support Services
  If gambling is becoming a problem, seek help from:
  
  • Gamblers Anonymous (international): www.gamblersanonymous.org
  
  
  • National Problem Gambling Helpline (U.S.): 1-800-522-4700
  
  
  • GamCare (U.K.): www.gamcare.org.uk
  
  
  • Local counseling or addiction services in your area.

Recognizing Problem Gambling

It’s important to know the signs of gambling addiction:

• Feeling the need to gamble with more money to get the same excitement.

• Lying to friends or family about your gambling habits.

• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.

• Neglecting work, relationships, or hobbies due to gambling.

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling.

If you or someone you know shows these signs, it’s time to seek help.

The Role of Gambling Operators

Responsible gambling is a shared responsibility. Operators should:

• Provide clear information about odds, risks, and responsible gambling tools.

• Offer self-exclusion options and limits on deposits or losses.

• Train staff to recognize and assist players who may be struggling.

• Avoid aggressive marketing tactics that target vulnerable individuals.