What Is Responsible Gambling: A Detailed Guide for Casino Players 2024

As a casino player, it’s essential to be aware of what responsible gambling is and how you can ensure that your gaming activities don’t have negative consequences for yourself and your close ones. In this expert guide, we’ll explore what gambling responsibly online means and explain how you can stay within its guidelines when playing at casinos.


What Is Responsible Gambling?

(Source: 10CRIC)

Responsible gambling refers to a set of guidelines and behaviours that ensure gambling remains safe and within manageable limits. It involves understanding the risks associated with gambling and making informed decisions to make sure the money you gamble with won’t cause financial hardship.

In brief, responsible gambling includes:

  • Setting personal limits before playing
  • Being aware of where to find support if needed
  • Taking breaks from online gambling when necessary

Responsible Gambling vs Problem Gambling

Responsible gambling is playing within your means and understanding the limitations and risks that come with playing online. It’s also important to know when to take breaks or stop altogether if you feel like your gambling habits are becoming unmanageable.

Problem gambling refers to a behaviour where your online casino activities adversely affect your quality of life — be it financially, emotionally, or mentally. It also includes situations where one might show or act in a manner that may cause self-harm.

Problem gamblers are unable to limit the amount of money or time they spend gambling, and their lives become centered around it. They often experience financial losses, strained relationships, mental health issues, and even criminal activity.

Effects of Problem Gambling

As mentioned, problem gambling can have a profound impact on individuals and their families, both financially and emotionally. The negative effects of problem gambling include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Guilt
  • Shame
  • Stress
  • Relationship problems
  • Financial difficulties due to accumulated debt
  • Poor nutrition
  • Lack of sleep
  • Substance abuse

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

It is important to be aware of warning signs that indicate one may need to seek help. Common signs of problem gambling include:

  • Excessive preoccupation with gambling and a need to increase the amount of time spent on it.
  • Increasingly reckless behaviour while gambling, such as chasing losses or spending more money than initially planned.
  • Withdrawal from relationships, activities and interests that used to be important or enjoyable.
  • Lying about gambling activities or developing irregularities in payment of bills.
  • Borrowing money to support excessive gambling habits or using funds intended for other purposes to gamble.
  • Difficulty in controlling or limiting the amount of money and time spent on gambling.
  • Neglecting work, family, friends, and other responsibilities due to gambling activities.
  • Taking risks in order to ‘win back’ what has been lost from prior gambling activities.

How To Evaluate Your Gambling Behaviour

You must take an honest look at how you’re approaching your gambling and make sure it isn’t leading to negative outcomes.

The first step to evaluating your gambling behaviour is to assess your own motivation. Are you primarily motivated by the thrill of winning, or are you hoping to make a profit? Different motivations can lead to different levels of risk and reward, so it’s important to be honest with yourself about why you’re gambling. Online gambling should only be viewed as a source of entertainment, not primary income.

Next, take a look at the amount of time and money you are spending on gambling. Are you regularly investing large amounts of both? Or do you prefer to play smaller stakes more frequently? While neither approach is necessarily bad, understanding your limits and sticking to them is key.

It’s also important to track how much you win or lose over a certain period of time; this can help you measure your success and determine whether gambling is becoming a problem. If you find that you’re consistently losing more than you win, it is probably time to take a step back and cut down on your gambling activity.

Finally, consider the impact that gambling is having on your life overall. Are your relationships suffering? Are you neglecting important tasks or activities in order to gamble? Are you feeling anxious or depressed after gambling? If so, it may be time to seek help.


Problem Gambling Detected. Now What?

There are many resources and support systems available to help those with gambling problems. By taking the right steps, it is possible to treat problem gambling and overcome the associated challenges. Let’s take a look at a few things you can do:

  • Set Limits: Setting a budget, limiting the amount of time you spend gambling, and avoiding going to casinos and other places where you are tempted to gamble can help reduce the potential damage caused by problem gambling. Most reliable online casinos will offer this as a tool for you to manage on your account with them.
  • Find an Alternative: Finding another activity can help reduce the appeal of gambling. This could include pursuing a hobby, enrolling in a sport or fitness programme, or even spending time with friends and family.
  • Seek Help: Seeking professional help for problem gambling is one of the best steps you can take to tackle the issue. There are organisations like Gamblers Anonymous India that can provide support and advice. Additionally, many states in India have helplines or centers that can provide additional assistance with problem gambling.

How Do Casinos Help Promote Responsible Gambling?

(Source: 1xBet)

Casinos can help promote responsible gambling in several ways. They offer several tools to help players stay within their limits, including deposit limits, time-outs, self-exclusion options, and other mechanisms for self-control.

Casino Tools To Help You Gamble Responsibly

(Source: 1xBet)

Fortunately, there are some tools that can help if you find yourself in a situation where you need help managing your gambling habits.

  1. Self-exclusion
    Many casinos have implemented self-exclusion programmes that allow players to limit their gambling activity or exclude themselves from the casino altogether. This invaluable tool is available when a player deems it necessary.
  2. Limit setting
    Another useful tool is setting limits. Casinos generally offer options for players to set their own deposit and betting limits, allowing them to manage their gambling activity more responsibly.
  3. Time outs
    Many online casinos also offer ‘time-out’ periods for players who need a break from gambling. During this time, the player will not be allowed to access their account or place any bets. This gives them the time they need to assess their situation and come back with a clearer head.
  4. Access to third-party services
    Online casinos can also promote responsible gambling by providing access to third-party services, such as GamCare, BeGambleAware, and Gamblers Anonymous. These services provide players with the opportunity to talk to someone who can help them understand their gambling habits and form a plan to manage them better.

 


Top Responsible Gambling Casinos

We have compiled a list of the best online casinos that prioritise player safety above all else. Not only do these casinos provide a secure and safe gaming environment, but they also adhere to responsible gambling regulations and offer players the opportunity to set spending limits and practise self-exclusion if needed.

Here are our recommendations:

  1. Betway
    Betway online casino has valid casino licences from the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. The casino enables you to bet on various sports events, as well as exciting casino games. Plus, with its secure data protection systems, your funds are always safe and secure. Betway understands the importance of responsible gaming and offers a range of measures to help keep your gambling habits in check.
  2. Casino Days
    Casino Days understands the importance of security and fairness when gambling online. It uses the latest encryption technology to ensure that your data and financial information are kept safe, while it’s Random Number Generator (RNG) is regularly tested to guarantee fair play. On top of this, Casino Days holds a valid gaming licence from the Malta Gaming Authority, so you can be sure that you’re playing at a trusted and secure online casino.
  3. BitStarz
    BitStarz is a leading online casino that allows you to play with both fiat currencies and cryptocurrencies. With slots, poker, live dealer games, and more, the casino offers something for everyone. Additionally, BitStarz uses the latest SSL-encryption technology to protect the players’ financial data, and it has a valid casino licence from Antillephone N.V.

Also see our top trusted casinos here


Need Professional Help? Top Responsible Gambling Organisations

Below is a list of some of the most reputable responsible gambling organisations:

  1. BeGambleAware
    An independent website that provides advice, resources and treatment for people affected by problem gambling.
  2. GamblersAnonymous
    A worldwide support group of people who have come together to share their experiences and help each other recover from a gambling problem.
  3. GamblingHelpOnline
    An Australian government-funded website offering confidential counselling, self-help tools and resources to people affected by problem gambling.
  4. ChoiceNotChance
    A Canadian non-profit organisation that provides information and resources to promote safe and responsible gambling.
  5. NCP Gambling
    A US-based advocacy organisation that works to reduce the impact of problem gambling by providing resources, education, and outreach.

Top Reputable Responsible Gambling Organisations in India
Here are some of the most reputable organisations in India dedicated to promoting responsible gambling and providing support to those affected by problem gambling:
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – 1800-6-668-668
Gamblers Anonymous –  +91 8826904945
Hope Care India –  +91 9311112377

Emergency Responsible Gambling Helpline Numbers

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem in India, help is available.

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) India helpline provides free and confidential counselling for people affected by problem gambling. Their nationwide toll-free helpline can be reached at 1800-6-668-668 between 10 am and 6 pm, Monday to Saturday.

The National Gambling Helpline can also be reached at 1-800-522-4700 for free, confidential advice and support.

Additionally, the Gamblers Anonymous (GA) India helpline is available at +91 8826904945 between 7:30 am and 9 pm, Monday to Saturday.

You can also reach out to Hope Trust and Hope Care India, two non-profit organisations dedicated to counselling and treatment for individuals suffering from gambling addiction. The Hope Trust helpline is available 24/7 and can be reached at +91 90008 50001. Hope Care India’s helpline number is +91 9311112377.


Is Responsible Gambling Fun?

Yes! Playing responsibly does not mean you need to miss out on all of the excitement that comes with gambling. With the right knowledge and tools, you can ensure your gambling experience is both safe and enjoyable. When playing online, be sure to do your research beforehand on the game rules and regulations, and also, be mindful of how much money you are willing to spend each session. Lastly, set limits for yourself and stick to them.


Benefits of Gambling Responsibly

Gambling responsibly comes with many benefits, the most important of which is improved mental health and well-being. It helps to keep your gambling activities under control and prevents you from getting into debt or using gambling as a way of escaping stress or other life problems.

Key benefits include:

  • Balancing your lifestyle: Responsible gambling can help you better manage your money and family life. You will be able to set limits on how much you can bet, as well as budget accordingly to ensure that you can still pay your bills and meet other expenses.
  • Enjoyment: Responsible gambling ensures that you still get to enjoy the excitement of playing without having the risk of developing an addiction or getting into financial trouble.
  • Financial stability: By practising responsible gambling, you are more likely to manage your bankroll responsibly and be mindful of how much money you spend on gambling.

Responsible Gambling Conclusion

At the end of the day, it is important to remember that gambling should be a source of entertainment and not seen as an investment or anything that will guarantee you financial success. It’s vital that you keep track of your spending and ensure you are taking responsible steps when gambling. If, at any point, gambling becomes more than just a fun pastime for you, it’s imperative to reach out and get help. There are several organisations that specialise in problem gambling and can be very helpful in getting you back on track.


Responsible Gambling FAQs

1. What are the best responsible gambling casino mobile apps?

Our recommendations for the best online casino mobile apps that prioritise responsible gambling include Parimatch, 10CRIC and 1xBet.

2. How can I tell if I am developing a gambling problem?

Problem gambling is usually characterised by an inability to stop playing even after losses have mounted up, and chasing those losses with more money. If you find yourself becoming preoccupied with gambling, spending significantly more money than you can afford to lose, or having difficulty controlling your emotions while playing casino games online, it may be time to take a step back and reassess your gaming habits.

3. What is the best way to practise responsible gaming?

Practising responsible gaming starts with setting and sticking to a budget before you start playing casino games online. You should also take regular breaks, keep track of the amount of time you spend gambling, and limit the number of games you play in one session. Finally, it’s important to understand when to take a break if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed.