Gambling Addiction

Online gambling can offer enjoyment and entertainment, but there are also risks involved. We promote responsible gambling by providing information about gambling addiction. This page offers guidance for those who may be affected and raises awareness of gambling risks.

Gambling Addiction

Gambling Addiction

For many, gambling and betting are a very enjoyable pastime. And it should stay that way. However, as with many things, gambling has its risks. It can become addictive and have negative consequences for both the player and those around them. Promoting responsible gambling is a must, and we are committed to it. Here, we consider the risks of problem gambling, outline ways to help, and outline support options for any player who is affected.

Why it can be bad

Also known as compulsive gambling or having a gambling disorder, gambling addiction is a serious condition akin to alcohol addiction with regard to its far-reaching ramifications. A serious addiction results in negative consequences for both the player and those close to them. It can have major impacts on the player’s daily life, financial setup, work life, and love life.

Signs of a problem

If someone is suffering from a gambling addiction, there are typically clear signs. These signs can be used by the player themselves to identify an issue, or by those close to the player who may notice changes in their behavior. Here are some of the signs to keep an eye out for if you suspect a gambling problem:

Lack of control

The player is unable to stop or limit gambling activities despite the negative side effects that are occurring.

Preoccupation

The player is typically always thinking about gambling, and when the next gambling session can take place. It can also revolve around rumination about previous sessions.

Chasing losses

The gambler tries to recoup losses from a previous loss and keeps gambling even after larger losses.

Neglect of responsibilities

The gambler stops paying close attention to professional or personal responsibilities because of gambling. This can result in a relationship breakdown or job loss due to excessive absences.

Financial issues

The gambler succumbs to financial difficulties, borrows money, or even starts to perform some illegal activities to fund their gambling addiction.

Emotional distress

The gambler becomes irritable, restless, or anxious when unable to gamble. This becomes more noticeable when they reduce or try to quit gambling.

Subterfuge

The gambler will hide their gambling lifestyle and potentially not divulge how much they win or lose, hiding how much money has been lost from loved ones.

All of these are signs that the gambling addiction is in full swing. For anyone outside the gambling world, if someone you know shows any of these signs, then they need help.

How to avoid becoming addicted Responsible gambling tools

Of course, there are some pre-emptive steps players can take to ensure they don’t become addicted in the first place. And this is where responsible gambling tools come in very handy. There are also some simple rules to follow regarding play style and budgeting that players can set for themselves before getting started. These include setting a budget, never spending over what you can afford to lose, and not chasing losses. Responsible gambling tools can really help to achieve some of these goals.

 

 

Using responsible gambling tools Responsible gambling tools

There are a variety of responsible gambling tools available at online casinos in Canada. These are in place to help players put a curb or limits on their gambling right from the outset. Even if a player thinks they can handle the pressures of gambling, it’s a good idea to set up some of these tools just in case.

Time limits

These can be implemented to restrict the length of play. Hours of playing can more easily lead to addiction and problem gambling.

 

 

Deposit/loss limits

All players should set these up during the account creation process. Set a deposit limit to prevent overspending. Loss limits help players keep track of how much they are losing over time.

 

 

Cooling-off period

Similar to self-exclusion, this is a shorter period during which the player’s account is blocked from access. It’s a good tool to have for players who may be teetering on the edge of addiction.

 

 

Self-exclusion

If gambling becomes overwhelming, this is an option to restrict and prevent play across many online casinos. It can be done for varying periods, from 6 months to 1 year or even 5 years. Using this option means you cannot access any form of gambling on that platform. The account cannot be reinstated until the self-exclusion period has ended, and no adverts will be sent to the player.

 

 

Who can help?

Professional counseling and support for gambling addiction recovery

Once you’ve identified that there’s an issue, there are people who can step in to help. There are many different organizations that are poised to offer support, guidance, and resources for those who are affected by gambling addiction. If a player needs help, we recommend reaching out to one of these organizations.

 

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

This is a fellowship that brings groups of individuals who have suffered from gambling addiction together to help them overcome it. Support is provided through regular meetings where people share experiences, help, and hope. It’s a 12-step program and a great tool for getting on the path to recovery.

Visit the Gamblers Anonymous website if you have gambling problems.

 

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)

The NCPG is an organization committed to dealing with the issues surrounding gambling addiction. It offers a wealth of information, resources, and support for those who are struggling. The NCPG also pushes for responsible gambling practices and promotes addiction awareness and prevention.

Visit NCPG if you have gambling problems.

 

GamCare

This UK-based organization offers a range of services to gambling addicts. There’s a helpline, online counseling, various treatment options, and resources for those looking for more information on responsible gambling. GamCare collaborates with gambling operators, promoting safe gambling practices and awareness around the risks of gambling.

Visit GamCare if you have gambling problems.

 

Gambling Therapy

This international service offers online counseling and support for addicts. Its services include a helpline, forums, self-help tools, live chat, and more. Available in a wide array of languages, it’s designed to reach as many people as possible.

Looking for help is already half the battle won. Gambling addiction doesn’t have to be something that you face alone. Get in touch with any of these organizations if you or someone you know needs help to recover from gambling addiction.

Visit Gambling Therapy if you have gambling problems.

Simon Day
Edited by …

Simon Day - Content Writer

I have a wealth of experience in sports and casino writing. For the last five years, I have been providing expert articles for sports betting and casino sites all over the world. I specialize in online slot reviews, casino reviews and soccer betting.

I love the challenge of analyzing online slots to find the best value games, and I have developed a deep understanding of the mechanics of online casino games.

Kaylee Nancarrow

Kaylee Nancarrow

For those of you that don’t know me yet, my name is Kaylee Nancarrow and I have been playing poker since the age of 9. I was born in 1995 in a small town near Cape Town, South Africa and today, I am somewhat of a self-proclaimed expert when it comes to online gambling. My passion for gambling began at an early age, watching my father play late night poker.

Since then, I’ve taken my game to the next level and become an online casino review expert. Part of my job that I love the most, is that I get to explore the wonders of the online casino world. You never know what you’re going to come across, unless you read my reviews!