Top Tips For Responsible Gambling

Most players will know someone who has landed up in a bit of hot water from gambling irresponsibly, and it’s important to think of gambling as a leisure activity like any other, except with a few more risks attached. In order to assist our players in gambling responsibly, we approached a few industry experts for their top tips on keeping gambling fun, not problematic.

Gambling & Time Management

• Set a time-limit when you sit down to play your favourite games, and stick to it
• Don’t let gambling interfere with spending time with friends and family, as you don’t want to feel isolated
• Don’t let playing your favourite games interfere with your job, and don’t play during working hours – unless you are on a break
• Make sure to balance gambling with other activities such as reading, watching a film or socialising

**Responsible Money Management **

• It’s important not to think of gambling as a way to make money, but rather that any money made is an enjoyable by-product of this leisure activity
• When sitting down to enjoy your favourite casino games, set a money limit and stick to it
• Never chase losses, as this is the fastest way to burn through your bankroll quickly
• Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose
• Don’t go in with the expectation of winning money
• Never borrow money to gamble with, as this is a definite sign that it’s no longer just for fun
• Keep an accurate record of all monies lost and won

The Emotional Impact of Gambling

• Don’t gamble if you are feeling emotionally vulnerable, such as angry or depressed, as this could lead you down a very destructive path
• Don’t gamble as a way to celebrate, as this is also not a positive association to establish
• Gambling should only be thought of as a fun way to pass the time, and not as something you need to do
• Alcohol and gambling is not a good combination and should not be mixed
• Accept any losses as part and parcel of the activity and don’t let it severely impact on your mood
• Understand the benefits and risks of gambling, and figure out why you are gambling – if it’s not just for fun, then it’s better to avoid it completely Most importantly: if you think you’re gambling for the wrong reasons, seek help immediately.