How to Gamble Responsibly
Gambling is fun for most players, but it can become a problem for a small minority. As such, while the majority of our visitors will never experience a problem, playing responsibly is the best approach for all players, not just those who have a gambling problem or are at risk of developing one. This means gambling remains fun while all are informed about its potential risks.
What About Online Casinos?
All casinos, be they online or offline, have a house edge. Also known as the casino advantage, this is a built-in advantage that allows casinos to make a profit. The higher a game’s house edge is, the less it will pay out on average over time compared to a game with a lower house edge. It is important that players keep this in mind in order to make informed decisions while gambling safely, as gambling habits can spiral out of control.
How to Help Yourself
Practical steps to help you stay in control:
- Give yourself a time limit
- Set deposit limits
- Don’t set financial targets to reach
- Play when you want to
- Use the online casino tools mentioned in the next section
How Online Casinos Can Help
Online casinos actually have means to help customers take control of their gambling through Responsible Gaming functionality. These include:
- Reality Checks
- Deposit Limits
- Gambling Activity History
- Take a Break
- Self-Exclude
- No Autoplay Controls
What If I Have a Problem?
If you understand that you have a problem with gambling, then there are some practical steps you can take, especially if this realisation is not enough to help you take back control.
Ask for Help
- Get help with setting a budget plan
- Limit online casino deposits/spending
- Self-exclude yourself
- Use a calendar to mark the days when you don’t gamble
- Use services such as Gamblock
Independent Help Services
If you need further detailed advice or more specific help and counselling, please contact one of the following independent help services:
- BeGambleAware offers free and confidential help both online and by phoning the National Gambling Helpline: https://www.begambleaware.org/
- National Problem Gambling Clinic is a leading provider of addiction treatment and recovery services based in London: https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/services/mental-health-services/addictions-and-substance-misuse/national-problem-gambling-clinic
- Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share experiences, strength, and hope with each other so they may solve their common problem and help others do the same: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
