What is responsible gambling?
Responsible gambling is about using games for entertainment and being aware of your own limits. Gambling becomes problematic when it is used as a primary source of income or when you gamble with more money than you can afford to lose.
“Responsible gambling” programs are preventive measures intended for all players to prevent the development of problematic gambling.
It is important to distinguish between responsible gambling and problem gambling programs to make them relevant and accessible to all players.
What does it mean to gamble responsibly?
Gambling responsibly means taking breaks, not using gambling as a source of income, gambling only with money you can afford to lose, and setting limits on your gambling, both in time and money. Many online casinos offer tools to help players set these limits directly on the platform.
Symptoms of gambling problems
It is important to be aware of warning signs of gambling problems in order to intervene early and prevent the problem from worsening. Symptoms include spending a lot of time and money on gambling, financial problems as a result of gambling, and conflicts with family and friends.
Self-testing
All licensed casinos offer self-tests to help players identify any problems with their gambling. If you suspect you have problems with gambling, these questions can help you determine whether you need to seek help.
If you suspect you have problems with gambling, we provide some questions below to help you get answers:
- Does gambling prevent you from going to work or school?
- Do you gamble just to pass the time or to avoid boredom?
- Do you gamble alone for long periods?
- Has anyone said that you spend too much time gambling?
- Have you started spending less time with family and friends because you began spending more time gambling?
- Have you ever lied about how much time and money you spend on gambling?
- Have you ever stolen or lied to gamble more?
- Are you unwilling to spend gambling money on anything else?
- How often do you not stop until you have lost all your money?
- Do you often want to win back the money immediately after a loss?
- Do you feel confused and desperate after losing money?
- Can any problems, disappointments, and frustrations make you start gambling?
- Does gambling lead to depression and suicidal thoughts?
A large number of “yes” answers indicates that you likely have problems with gambling. It is recommended that you self-exclude from all casino sites. You can also get advice on this topic from the organizations listed below.
Tools for responsible gambling
Responsible gambling tools give players the opportunity to set limits on their gambling, including deposit limits, time limits, and loss limits. These tools are available at most licensed online casinos.
Organizations that can help
There are several organizations that offer support and advice for people experiencing problems with their gambling, including Stödlinjen, BeGambleAware, and GamCare. These organizations provide anonymous helplines and resources to help players manage their gambling.