Responsible gambling

The field of responsible gambling has developed incredibly over the past decade, it is now beginning to have a profound effect on the minimisation of gambling addiction and related issues. The operators have taken a greater stand against the problems of responsible gambling, in the past it may have just been the task of maybe 1 or 2 employees, now whole departments are dedicated to it. It is now a concept that is embraced at all levels of a betting organisation from the CEO down to the account managers and point-of-sale retailers, and everyone who comes in-between.

When the fun stops, STOP

Gambling addiction can ruin lives and entire families. It is something that you don’t have to deal with alone. There are countless fantastic agencies and helplines out there that have proven to increase the chance of turning a problem gambler away from their addiction. Look below for a list of the best places to seek help.

There are many things and rules you can stick too in order to prevent yourself from becoming a problem gambler. Just think about the enjoyment that you get from gambling and don’t base it purely on money making, it should always remain an activity that you do to supplement your enjoyment of sport. Not the pure reason you watch and enjoy sports.

  • Never bet in order to gain back lost money
  • Never gamble in a bad or upset mood
  • Always prioritise loved ones over gambling

Gambling is revolved around evaluating risk and deciding. Never lose your perception of unreasonable risk, causing yourself huge financial problems and destroying the lives of those around you is never worth the buzz you might get out of placing a bet.

Identifying a compulsive gambler

There are many ways that you can tell when someone has an addiction, no matter whether it be to alcohol, drugs or gambling – the symptoms often present themselves in the same ways. If you notice a loved one or friend displaying any of the following tendencies, seek immediate help:

  • Showing extreme stress or anxiety
  • Constantly monitoring sports fixtures
  • Financially they are very unstable
  • Losing interest in socialising and relationships
  • Being aggressive or violent towards others

These are just a few of the classic tendencies that many problem gamblers have identified with. It does not mean to say that if somebody remains completely cool, calm and collected that they do not have an addiction. You should always approach somebody with a gambling problem the same way as anybody else addicted to something. Be understanding, be non-judgemental and try to make them understand that it doesn’t have to continue like that, and they can live life a lot differently if they really want to.

Overhauling bad practices: what is the motivation?

Although a lot of the change has been fuelled by regulatory and enforced actions, there does seem to be an inherent realisation that problem-free players make better for business, as they will continue to play when it is a pleasurable experience. In short, proactive betting companies have increased the awareness of socially responsible business practices, that are based on increasing the number of moderate wagering, long-term repeat customers and, that strive to avoid custom from players with gambling problems.