Gambling can be a fun recreational activity, but for some it can become more than that. Problem gambling, also known as gambling disorder, affects an estimated 2-4% of the adult population globally. This article will discuss the importance of responsible gambling at Slots Gallery Casino, how to recognize the signs that gambling may be becoming a problem, and information on getting help.
What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling simply means having control over your gambling activities. It involves setting limits on money and time spent gambling, avoiding chasing losses by continuing to gamble to try and win back money, balancing gambling with other enjoyable activities, accepting losses, and gambling for entertainment rather than as a way to make money.
Signs of Problematic Gambling Behavior
If gambling starts negatively impacting other areas of a person’s life, it may indicate the behavior is becoming problematic. Some key signs to look out for include:
- Gambling with Increasing Sums of Money: Gambling increasing amounts over time in an unsuccessful attempt to win back money that has been lost
- Lying About Gambling: Covering up or lying about the extent of time and money spent gambling
- Gambling Despite Serious Consequences: Continuing to gamble even when it has resulted in issues like financial losses, problems in relationships, loss of job, etc.
- Failed Attempts to Cut Back or Stop: Many failed attempts to cut back on gambling without success
- Preoccupation with Gambling: Obsessively thinking about past gambling experiences, future gambling ventures, planning next trips to the casino. Gambling takes up mental space even when not actively engaged in the behavior.
Below is a table summarizing key differences between responsible and problematic gambling:
| Responsible Gambling | Problematic Gambling |
| – Gambles for limited periods of time | – Gambles for long, extended periods, unable to walk away |
| – Sets a money limit and keeps to it | – Gambles increasing sums of money over time |
| – Accepts losses, does not chase losses | – Chases losses, trying to win back money |
| – Balances gambling with other activities | – Life starts revolving exclusively around gambling |
| – Gambles for fun and entertainment | – Gambles in hopes of winning money |
If several of the problematic gambling signs resonate and there is concern about your own or a loved one’s gambling, considering getting help is the next important step.
Getting Help for Problem Gambling
Various resources exist both to prevent problem gambling behaviors and treat those already affected:
- Informational Resources – Educational materials and screening tools to gauge if gambling behaviors are problematic.
- Limit-Setting Tools – Software to track time and amounts spent playing slots mobile, set limits and block certain sites.
- Support Groups – Local support groups like Gamblers Anonymous connect people to others going through similar struggles.
- Professional Treatment – Counselors and advanced treatment programs tailored specifically to addressing problem gambling through methods like cognitive behavioral therapy.
If gambling behavior has already reached a problematic point, the sooner help is sought out the better. The resources above can support gamblers in pursuing change. It is possible to overcome problem gambling with the right help and support system.
Conclusion
Responsible gambling involves being aware of warning signs that gambling may become excessive and out of control. Monitoring both money and time spent gambling and stepping in if various consequences start unfolding is key. Various educational, peer support, limit-setting tools and professional treatment options exist to help those already struggling with gambling disorder to regain control. Taking an honest inventory of gambling behaviors and getting help early offers the best chance at limiting impacts to one’s finances, relationships and overall health.