Gambling is mostly fun and enjoyable, but when gamblers start seeing it as a way to make money, wager more than they can afford or use it as a means to escape from everyday problems, gambling can become potentially harmful. Check out the tips below to keep yourself safe when experiencing the thrill at the gaming table.
If you’re gambling because you want to escape debts or make fast money, you may need to think twice about your motivations. The truth is, land-based and online casinos are making money with gambling and it’s not supposed to work the other way round. Gambling is not the solution to improving your personal finances. Rather, it’s more like an entertainment expense – same as buying a cinema ticket.
Keep track on when, how much and what you’ve been wagering on over time. This helps you make well-informed choices about your next move.
Don’t let yourself lose track of time. When you’re gambling, set alerts to pop up on screen, and quit immediately when time’s up! This stops you from losing excessive money from prolonged gaming.
Think about how much you can afford to lose before you start gambling. It’s a good idea to set a limit on the amount you spend on each gaming product. Let the game be over when the money is gone! Celebrate if you win, but if your luck doesn’t continue, don’t be disappointed.
Take a break from online gambling for a set amount of time, for example, 6 weeks. You can even isolate yourself from gambling during a particular time of day.
You can ask to be self-excluded if you feel that the amount of time and money you’re spending on gambling is alarming. When you’re self-excluded, the gaming firm blocks you from gambling with them for a period of time as you request. This will last for a minimum of 6 months. It’s a good way to get help to stop if you think you’re starting to become addicted to gambling.
About 80% of gamblers never read the terms and conditions on the online casinos they’re playing at. However, reading the T&Cs closely can give you a clear understanding of what you’re gambling on and what requirements are attached to offers and promotions. This will make sure that your decision is well-informed
Make sure the online betting site you’re playing at is licensed by the Gambling Commission, as this is the only case when you’ll be protected by gambling and consumer protection rules in the UK. Licensed gaming companies must inform their customers that they are licensed. Also, they’re required to provide a link to the licence register of the Gambling Commission so that players can see the types of activities they can legally offer, as well as the regulatory actions that have been taken against them.
If you feel that your gambling is getting too much, remember to approach gambling support groups which are widely available across the country. Click here for a list of gambling helplines and resources.
