Gambling should be entertaining, not a way to make money. If gambling stops being fun, it's time to stop.
Tips for Safe Gambling
- Set a budget — Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start playing, and stick to it.
- Set time limits — Decide how long you'll play and use casino tools to track your time.
- Don't chase losses — If you're losing, don't try to win it back by betting more.
- Don't gamble when emotional — Avoid gambling when you're stressed, depressed, or upset.
- Take breaks — Step away regularly to maintain perspective.
- Balance gambling with other activities — Ensure gambling doesn't become your only hobby.
- Never borrow money to gamble — Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more money or time on gambling than intended
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop gambling
- Trying to win back money you've lost (chasing losses)
- Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or guilty about gambling
Self-Exclusion Tools
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you control your gambling:
- Deposit limits — Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits
- Loss limits — Cap the amount you can lose in a period
- Session time limits — Get alerts after a set playing time
- Reality checks — Receive reminders of how long you've been playing
- Self-exclusion — Block yourself from the casino for a set period
- Cool-off periods — Take a short break from gambling
Get Help
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these organizations provide free, confidential support:
Underage Gambling
Online gambling is strictly for adults. The minimum age is typically 18 or 21 depending on your jurisdiction. We encourage parents to use parental control software to prevent minors from accessing gambling sites.