Studies define problem gambling as an activity that damages your entire life and interferes with your daily behaviour. So it is not just about losing money.
It is about crossing that threshold between safe and fun to frustrated and unhealthy. Whether you bet on sports, scratch cards, roulette, poker, or slots—in a casino, at the track, or online— it is your responsibility to keep control of your game and stick to a set budget.
Crossing that line will only have consequences, as gambling issues can strain your relationships, interfere with work, and eventually lead to financial disaster.
For that reason, staying safe and playing responsibly is vital; undoubtedly, you’ll still have a fantastic gambling experience with a happy, and why not profitable, outcome.
If you’re wondering what it means to be a responsible gambler, then respecting some basic rules is the beginning. When you start gambling online, you should remember that all entertainment is good but with a limit.
As a responsible player, you need to know your boundaries, when to keep up and when to say “no”. Here are some rules you should keep in mind every time you access a gambling platform:
The amount you wager must be the amount you set aside specifically for this activity, for enjoyment, just as you would have done with funds for going out, seeing a play, or the movies. Never go over the set budget, and don’t use the money destined for rent, bills, or food.
Gambling can be tricky. If you are losing more than expected, don’t try to get your money back by continuing to bet even after you’ve gone over your budget. In those moments, you are not playing with a clear head, thus, driven by emotion, chances are to keep losing even more money if you keep it up.
The sole purpose of paying online is to have fun. If you feel gambling is no longer fun but rather frustrating, you need to stop. The chances are that you no longer enjoy the same games, or you might be upset about losing money. In this case, take a break and relax. After you calm down, you’ll be ready to start having fun again.
Before playing online, you have to decide how much money you want to spend on this activity and how much you can afford to lose. This way, you’ll know when to stop when reaching that limit.
The same rule applies to time as well. As time is as valuable as money (or even more so), you shouldn’t be playing for an unreasonable time. Thus, set your priorities and ensure you’re not missing out on other essential things.
Indeed this is a form of entertainment that can bring you money, yet you shouldn’t believe that this could be your primary source of income.
All casino titles are games of chance, so they work solely on luck. If your purpose is to get rich overnight, don’t be disappointed when it doesn’t happen.
Besides skills and strategy, you’ll need an incredible amount of luck to win such a game. So, trust the process, have fun and you’ll win when you expect less.
You shouldn’t gamble if you’re not in the right mood. This means that making bets when angry, depressed, or in any other state of mind that’s not positive won’t help you when you are betting online. You need a clear mind and a lot of calm to make the right decisions.
You shouldn’t place bets if you’re under any influence, like alcohol or drugs, as they might affect your judgment.
Mixing chemicals and gambling might overwhelm your brain and make it hard to keep a rational mind. It will only lead to actions that you’ll later regret.
If you think you might have a gambling problem or find yourself doing some of the things we’ve discussed above, you should seek help.
Surround yourself with friends and family willing to help you and seek professional help. You don’t have to fight addiction alone; some specialised people offer the proper guidance and advice to help you regain balance.
Gambling addiction is often referred to as a “hidden illness” as there are no obvious physical signs or symptoms like there are in drug or alcohol addiction.
Moreover, gamblers with this problem usually deny the issue even to themselves. Here’s a list of the signs that will help you find out if you have a gambling problem:
Realising that you have a problem is the first and most important step in recovering from a gambling addiction. To admit this requires a lot of courage and effort, especially if you've experienced financial loss and strained or broken relationships along the road. Don't give up, and don't try to do it on your own.
Many people who have been in your position have successfully broken the habit and started over. You can do that, too, if you seek professional help. Several organisations offer the guidance you need, and we’re here to tell you about them. Here’s where you may talk about your issue through phone, email, chat or even in person:
All these organisations have trained staff to help you fight your addiction and find the best way to resolve all your issues. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help, as this is their purpose.
If you feel that your gambling practices are no longer in the “safe” zone, contact our team at BetBrain. Our experts will try their best to help you.
Remember, the key to a successful gambling experience is to find balance, set limits, have fun, and, most importantly, play safe!
