Responsible Gambling

Online gambling can be an entertaining and engaging activity when approached responsibly. For most people, it’s a fun pastime, but for some, gambling can develop into problematic behavior. At BetSurfer, our goal is to provide a supportive environment with the resources, tools, and information needed to ensure that gambling remains safe, controlled, and enjoyable for everyone.

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is defined as any gambling behavior that disrupts or damages an individual’s life. This might affect finances, relationships, or general well-being. Recognizing the warning signs early can prevent further negative impacts. Some common indicators include:

  • Inability to Stop: Feeling an urge to keep gambling, even after winning or losing.
  • Financial Issues: Betting with money that should go toward essential expenses.
  • Time Mismanagement: Spending excessive time on gambling, neglecting work, family, or social commitments.
  • Emotional Reactions: Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or frustration when unable to gamble.
  • Reliance on Wins: Believing that future wins will cover past losses, leading to “chasing losses.”

If you identify with any of these symptoms, it may be beneficial to explore the resources and support services available to you.

How to Keep Your Gambling Under Control

Responsible gambling means having tools and strategies that allow you to enjoy gambling without compromising other aspects of your life. Here are some tips and resources to help maintain control:

  • Set Financial Limits: Decide in advance on a strict budget for gambling. Stick to this amount, and never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
  • Set Time Limits: Plan your gambling time in advance and stick to that limit, ensuring you spend time on other hobbies and responsibilities.
  • Take Regular Breaks: Allow yourself regular breaks to evaluate your current mindset and behavior during gambling sessions.
  • Avoid Chasing Losses: Accept that losses are a part of gambling. Avoid the impulse to “make back” losses by betting more, as this can quickly lead to problematic behavior.
  • Monitor Emotional Triggers: If you find yourself gambling to relieve stress, loneliness, or other negative emotions, consider finding alternative coping mechanisms.

Self-Assessment Questions

If you’re unsure whether your gambling habits are under control, try asking yourself the following questions:

  1. Do you gamble alone on your computer or phone for extended periods, neglecting other responsibilities?
  2. Have you needed to increase your stakes to feel excitement?
  3. Do you experience restlessness or agitation when you’re not gambling?
  4. Have you tried to hide your gambling from loved ones?
  5. Have you borrowed money or sold possessions to finance gambling?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it might be time to take proactive steps to limit your gambling. We also recommend taking the “Worried About Your Gambling” quiz available on websites like GambleAware.

Tools and Resources for Responsible Gambling

Many online gambling platforms offer tools to help players stay in control. The following are some features and resources available on most licensed gambling websites:

  • Deposit Limits: You can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to control the amount of money you put into gambling activities.
  • Reality Checks: These are reminders that appear during gameplay, encouraging you to review the time spent gambling.
  • Take a Break: You can activate a break period ranging from 24 hours to several weeks to temporarily restrict your access.
  • Self-Exclusion: If you feel that gambling is negatively affecting your life, self-exclusion allows you to block access to gambling sites for a chosen period, ranging from six months to five years.
  • Autoplay Controls: Many online platforms offer settings to set loss limits and other controls on autoplay functions.

For more information on how to activate these features, check the “Responsible Gambling” section on your preferred gambling site.

Protecting Minors from Gambling

Underage gambling is illegal and can have serious long-term effects on young people. To prevent minors from accessing gambling websites, we recommend:

  • Using Parental Controls: Software such as Net Nanny or other parental control tools can help prevent minors from accessing gambling content.
  • Secure Login Information: Keep your passwords and financial information confidential and inaccessible to minors.
  • Monitor Online Activity: Be mindful of the websites that children or teenagers visit.

Support and Assistance

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with gambling, support is available. These organizations offer confidential advice, resources, and counseling to help manage and overcome problem gambling:

  • GambleAware (UK): Comprehensive support services for individuals and families affected by gambling.
  • GamCare (UK): Provides support, information, and free treatment for anyone affected by problem gambling.
  • Gamblers Anonymous: An international support network offering group meetings and self-help resources.
  • Gambling Therapy: A global service providing free advice and emotional support to those impacted by gambling.

Country-Specific Resources

Support resources vary by country, and we encourage players to use local services for assistance. Some key resources include:

INTERNATIONAL

AUSTRALIA

  • Gambling Help Online
    Website: https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
    Phone: 1800 858 858
  • Responsible Gambling Victoria
    Website: https://responsiblegambling.vic.gov.au
    Phone: +61 3 9452 2600

BANGLADESH

BENIN

  • Loterie Nationale du Bénin (LNB)
    Website: https://lnb.bj
    Phone: +229 21 31 43 00

BRAZIL

CAMEROON

COTE D’IVOIRE

ETHIOPIA

  • Ethiopia National Lottery Administration
    Website: https://nla.gov.et
    Phone: +251 11 156 9069

FRANCE

GERMANY

GHANA

  • Baks-Calmare Enclave Foundation
    Phone: +233 243107705 | +233 206814666

INDONESIA

ITALY

KENYA

MOROCCO

NIGERIA

NORWAY

SOUTH AFRICA

How to Support a Loved One with a Gambling Problem

If you suspect that a friend or family member is dealing with problem gambling, there are several ways you can help:

  1. Offer Emotional Support: Approach them without judgment. Offer to listen and provide support, making sure they know they are not alone.
  2. Encourage Professional Help: Suggest resources like Gamblers Anonymous or professional counseling services.
  3. Set Boundaries: Protect yourself emotionally and financially. Set clear boundaries, especially regarding financial support.
  4. Be Patient: Understand that recovery can be a long process. Be there to support but recognize that change is ultimately up to them.

Final Thoughts on Responsible Gambling

Gambling should always be a recreational activity, not a source of stress or financial strain. By using tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and professional resources, you can ensure that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable experience. If you feel gambling is taking control of your life, remember that seeking help is a positive and courageous step.

We Are Here to Help We at BetSurfer are committed to promoting responsible gambling. Please contact us if you have any suggestions or questions about responsible gambling.