Responsible gambling: head over heart
At Casinos.org, your safety and enjoyment while gambling online are our top priorities. We want you to have a great time playing your favorite games at the best casinos, but we’re also committed to ensuring that betting or gaming never negatively affects your life. That’s why we’ve created a collection of helpful tools, information, tips, and resources to help you stay safe and keep the fun in gambling while playing responsibly.
Helping You Play Safe – Our Commitment to You
At Casinos.org, your safety is our priority. We are dedicated to protecting you from unsafe gambling sites and harmful betting habits. Gambling can be a fun and enjoyable form of entertainment when played responsibly and within your means. To ensure this, we use a rigorous review process for all casinos on our site and provide a variety of guides to help you make informed decisions.
We know, however, that for some people, gambling can become a problem, leading to serious challenges. If you think you might be at risk of developing a gambling issue, the resources and support we’ve outlined here are available to help you take control.
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What is Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling means enjoying games for fun while staying in full control of your play. It involves setting clear limits on time and money, sticking to them, and ensuring that gambling doesn’t harm you financially, emotionally, or mentally.
If you find yourself unable to stop, chasing losses, experiencing financial strain, feeling depressed, or hiding your gambling habits, it may be a sign of gambling addiction. Recognizing these signs early is crucial, and we’re here to guide you toward the support you need.
Our commitment is to keep you informed and help you gamble safely, so you can focus on having fun while staying in control.
7 Tips for Responsible Gambling
Whether you’re playing online, on your mobile, at a local casino, or at a bingo hall, these tips will help you gamble responsibly and reduce the risk of developing gambling problems.
- Set a Budget and Stick to It: Decide how much money you’re comfortable spending on gambling each week or month, and make sure to stick to that limit. This is one of the most effective ways to stay in control.
- Don’t Chase Losses: If you lose money, resist the urge to gamble more in an attempt to win it back. This often leads to losing even more and can quickly spiral out of control.
- Take Regular Breaks: If you’re gambling more than intended or starting to feel stressed or anxious, step away. Take a few days—or even a week—off to reset. If needed, consider using gambling exclusion tools to ensure you take a proper break.
- Understand the Odds: Gambling is designed to favor the house, and the odds are rarely in your favor. Don’t expect to win every time. Use resources like our guides on the truth about sports betting and slots to make smarter, more informed decisions.
- Avoid Gambling When Emotional: Gambling while angry, sad, or stressed often leads to poor decisions. Wait until you’re calm and thinking clearly before placing any bets.
- Stay Sober While Gambling: Alcohol, medication, and recreational drugs can impair your judgment, making you more likely to take unnecessary risks. Always ensure you’re in a clear state of mind before you gamble.
- Seek Help if You’re Struggling: If you’re finding it hard to stay in control, there are many organizations and services available to help. In most countries where gambling is legal, support is readily accessible for those at risk of or experiencing gambling problems.
If you’re struggling to follow these tips, it may be a sign of a gambling problem. Taking a free self-assessment from a safer gambling organization can help you identify risky behaviors and guide you toward the support you need.
Gambling should always be fun—so stay informed, stay in control, and play responsibly.
Recognizing the Signs of Problem Gambling in Yourself or Loved Ones
Gambling addiction can affect anyone, especially when responsible gambling practices are ignored. If you or someone close to you enjoys gambling and you’re worried about the possibility of it becoming a problem, here are key signs to watch for:
Signs of Problem Gambling
- Preoccupation with Gambling
Constantly talking or thinking about gambling, planning the day around it, or making excuses to gamble can indicate an unhealthy focus on betting activities. - Increasing Bets to Feel the Same Thrill
Known as tolerance, this happens when someone starts gambling with small amounts but needs to bet more over time to achieve the same level of excitement. - Unsuccessful Attempts to Cut Back
Repeatedly trying—and failing—to control, reduce, or stop gambling can signal a serious issue. Broken promises to quit gambling are also a red flag. - Restlessness or Irritability When Cutting Down
Feelings of anxiety, irritability, or depression when attempting to reduce gambling are signs of withdrawal, which can make quitting even harder. - Using Gambling to Escape Problems
Gambling as a way to cope with difficult emotions like guilt, anxiety, or depression often creates a destructive cycle, worsening the person’s overall well-being. - Chasing Losses
This happens when someone gambles more to try to recover previous losses, often leading to even greater financial trouble. - Hiding Gambling from Others
Lying about gambling habits, losses, or the amount of time spent gambling is a common sign. The person may even gamble in secret to avoid detection. - Neglecting Responsibilities and Relationships
Gambling can interfere with work, school, or personal relationships. Missing work or school, or ignoring loved ones, are common consequences. - Borrowing Money to Cover Losses
Asking for financial help, maxing out credit cards, or taking out loans to fund gambling habits or cover losses is another warning sign of a serious problem.
How to Help
If you’re concerned about a loved one, start by talking to them. Approach the conversation with empathy and avoid being confrontational. Offer your support and help them find professional resources that can address the issue.
If you recognize these signs in yourself, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Here are some options:
- Treatment Programs: Specialized programs that provide structured support and therapy for gambling addiction.
- Hotlines: Confidential phone lines offering advice and immediate support for problem gamblers.
- Counseling Services: Professional counselors can help you understand and manage your gambling behavior.
- Support Groups: Connecting with others who’ve faced similar struggles can provide encouragement and practical advice.
Seeking Professional Help
While tools like self-exclusion and blocking software are essential for managing gambling addiction, taking the step to seek professional help is a crucial part of responsible gambling. Trained experts can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs, helping you take control.
If you need more personalized support or want to speak to someone directly, most countries with regulated gambling industries offer a wide range of helplines and counseling services. Below are some of the most trusted resources available in the UK:
Trusted Resources for Professional Support
BeGambleAware
A UK-based charity offering tools, information, and support for people affected by gambling problems. It includes a self-exclusion tool for blocking access to gambling platforms.
- Website: www.begambleaware.org
- Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
BigDeal (Part of GamCare)
BigDeal focuses on providing support and information specifically for young people, whether for their own gambling issues or those of someone they care about.
- Website: www.bigdeal.org.uk
- Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube
GamCare
GamCare offers free support and counseling for anyone struggling with gambling in the UK. It also operates the National Gambling Helpline, available 24/7.
- Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
- Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
- WhatsApp Chat (Mobile Only): 020 3031 8881
- Other Options: Live chat, forums, group chat
Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
Gamblers Anonymous runs local support groups using a 12-step recovery program. GamAnon groups are also available for family and friends.
- Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
- Phone (UK): 0330 094 0322
- Email: info@gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Gambling Therapy
This service, run by Gordon Moody, provides free, practical advice and emotional support for anyone affected by gambling. Live text-based support is available.
- Website: www.gamblingtherapy.org
- Email: support@gamblingtherapy.org
Gordon Moody Association
A registered charity offering residential treatment and education for individuals severely addicted to gambling.
- Website: www.gordonmoody.org.uk
- Email: help@gordonmoody.org.uk
National Problem Gambling Clinic
This NHS service provides treatment for individuals over 13 dealing with problem gambling and other behavioral addictions.
- Website: www.cnwl.nhs.uk
- Phone: 020 7381 7722
NHS Gambling Services
- Northern Gambling Service: Specialized therapy in northern England.
- Website: www.leedsandyorkpft.nhs.uk
- Phone: 0300 300 1490
- Southern Gambling Service: Specialist treatment in southern England.
- Website: www.southernhealth.nhs.uk
- Phone: 02382 310000
- West Midlands Gambling Harm Clinic: Therapy for individuals in the West Midlands.
- Website: www.midlandsgamblingclinic.org
- Phone: 0300 123 0996
Samaritans
The Samaritans offer 24/7 confidential support for those feeling distressed, including issues related to gambling.
- Website: www.samaritans.org
- Helpline (24/7): 116 123
- Email: jo@samaritans.org
Take Action
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. These trusted services can provide guidance, treatment, and a path toward recovery. Seeking support is a vital step toward regaining control and well-being.
Keeping Children Safe
Although gambling is illegal for children in most countries, it’s crucial to educate them early about gambling and how to stay safe if they choose to participate when legally allowed. If you’re unsure how to approach this topic or want to protect them effectively, here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Start the Conversation
Talk openly with your children about gambling. Explain what it is, emphasizing that while it can be fun, it carries risks such as losing money, accumulating debt, or developing an addiction. Creating awareness early helps them make informed choices later.
2. Lead by Example
If you gamble, demonstrate responsible behavior. Only gamble within your means, and don’t let it interfere with your work, relationships, or responsibilities. Show your child that gambling should never take priority over life’s essentials.
3. Monitor Online Activity
Be aware of the websites and games your child engages with online. Many games include gambling-like elements, such as loot boxes, which could introduce them to gambling behaviors.
4. Discuss the Risks of Loot Boxes
Loot boxes in video games mimic gambling mechanics. Explain the risks of spending money on these random rewards and how they can lead to unhealthy habits.
5. Teach Financial Responsibility
Help your child understand the value of money and the importance of wise financial decisions. This foundation will help them resist risky gambling behaviors later in life.
6. Use Blocking Tools
Parental control software, like NetNanny, can block gambling-related websites and content. These tools add an extra layer of protection, ensuring children don’t access unregulated or harmful gambling sites.
7. Offer Support
If you suspect your child is developing a gambling problem, approach the situation with care and understanding. Numerous resources are available to assist families dealing with these challenges.
Self-Exclusion and Blocking Tools for Added Protection
If gambling becomes a problem, self-exclusion tools and blocking software are invaluable for managing access to gambling platforms. These tools can prevent you or your loved ones from registering or logging into gambling sites, adding an essential safeguard.
Here are some trusted options:
BetBlocker
A free self-exclusion tool that blocks access to specific gambling websites and apps.
- Website: Learn More
Gamban
An application that blocks online gambling across multiple devices. Free licenses are available in the UK through partnerships like TalkBanStop.
- Website: Learn More
GamBlock
Designed to prevent access to gambling content, even via VPNs and Tor browsers. This advanced option offers robust security.
- Website: Learn More
Gamstop
A free self-exclusion service that blocks access to all UK-licensed gambling platforms.
- Website: Learn More
NetNanny
Parental control software using AI technology to block harmful gambling content across devices and platforms.
- Website: Learn More
Financial Tools for Responsible Gambling
Many UK banks offer Gambling Block services to restrict spending on gambling-related transactions. Participating banks include:
- Bank of Scotland
- Barclays
- Halifax
- HSBC
- Lloyds Bank
- Monzo
- NatWest
- Santander
Additionally, independent organizations like StepChange Debt Charity and MoneyHelper provide financial advice and support for those dealing with gambling-related debt.