Responsible Gambling
Last updated at 24 November 2024
Responsible gaming
Online gaming is supposed to be a fun pastime, a way to enjoy yourself. However, there are times when the game transcends this light-heartedness and the initial pleasure fades away. At such times, it's wise to consider taking a break, or even stopping the activity altogether.
At PlayBonus.co.uk, responsible gambling is a priority. Partner casinos, poker sites and sports betting platforms offer various options to promote this responsibility, such as setting deposit limits or opting for temporary or permanent self-exclusion.
Although we're not mental health experts, we've compiled some essential information on responsible gambling and the signs of gambling addiction. Explore these resources, reflect on your gambling habits, and don't hesitate to seek help if you feel the need.
Tips for safe online gambling
GambleAware is a leading UK charity dedicated to gambling education and prevention. They offer ten essential tips for safe gambling :
Take frequent breaks.
Don't see gaming as a source of income.
Limit your gambling sessions.
Leave your bank card at home.
Avoid gambling to escape negative emotions.
Only gamble with money you're prepared to lose.
Don't try to win back your losses.
Don't gamble under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Alternate periods of gambling with other leisure activities.
Set a gambling budget that you don't want to exceed.
These tips are relevant to all players, whether in physical casinos or online. It is highly recommended to use the deposit and time limit features offered by online gaming platforms to effectively manage your gaming sessions.
Indicators of problem gambling behaviour
The concept of gambling disorder is defined differently in different countries and by different experts. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) characterizes it as a gambling disorder, described by recurrent gambling behavior that causes serious problems or significant distress.
According to the APA, to diagnose a gambling disorder, at least four of the following behaviors must be identified in the past year:
Inability to stop or reduce gambling despite repeated efforts.
Feeling of distress or frustration when trying to stop or reduce gambling.
Dependence on higher and higher amounts of gambling to feel the thrill.
Tendency to gamble under pressure or distress.
Recurring lies to conceal the extent of involvement in gambling.
The need to gamble larger and larger sums in an attempt to recoup previous losses.
Dependence on others to solve financial problems caused by gambling.
If you recognize yourself in one or more of these descriptions, it may be time to reconsider your gaming habits. BeGambleAware offers an anonymous online test that can help you assess your gambling behavior.
How to Get Help for Gambling Addiction
The Canadian Safety Council provides a list of local hotlines available 24/7 for those seeking support for gambling addiction:
Alberta: 1-866-332-2322
British Columbia: 1-888-795-6111
Manitoba: 1-800-463-1554
New Brunswick: 1-800-461-1234
Newfoundland and Labrador: 1-888-899-4357
Nova Scotia: 1-888-347-8888
Ontario: 1-888-230-3505
Prince Edward Island: 1-888-299-8399
Quebec: 514-527-0140; Montreal and area: 1-800-461-0140 or 1-866-767-5389
Saskatchewan: 1-800-306-6789
In case of emergency, don't hesitate to contact your local emergency services or dial 911.
For further information and personal development, visit http://www.problemgambling.ca