Gambling is meant to be an enjoyable and entertaining activity. However, for some individuals, it can become a significant issue, as gambling may trigger intense emotions and lead to addiction. In some countries, up to 5% of players face this type of dependency.
The primary responsibility of casinos, betting shops, and other similar establishments is to implement measures that promote responsible gambling. These actions help safeguard the well-being of their customers while also fostering user loyalty. The takeaway is simple: prioritising care and responsibility always yields positive outcomes.
Why does the dependence arise?
Addiction can develop for various reasons: the monotony of daily life, the hope of winning big for one’s family, the excitement of gambling, or the pursuit of pleasurable emotions. However, the underlying mechanism is often the same—the reward system ingrained in our psychology. When we receive a reward, our brain releases happiness hormones, creating a sense of pleasure that compels us to repeat the behaviour.
This is where the trap lies for some players: they become conditioned not to the reward itself but to the desire for it. As we know, anticipation often feels more satisfying than the actual event. Gambling thrives on this dynamic, offering endless opportunities for anticipation through its design, which perpetually creates the illusion that a win is just within reach.
Individuals who enjoy high-adrenaline activities, have a tendency toward impulsive actions, or become bored easily may be at a higher risk of developing an addiction.
How can you tell if you have fallen into dependence?
Addiction often reveals itself as an intense urge to recover losses, driving individuals to keep playing despite continued setbacks. This compulsion to win back lost money can lead players to take out loans or go to extreme lengths to secure funds for gambling. Stopping becomes increasingly difficult, as the pull of gambling feels nearly impossible to resist.
It’s also common to start lying or hiding gambling habits from loved ones. Family and friends may notice the problem and try to intervene, which often prompts gamblers to conceal their activities and continue playing in secret.
Casinos that follow responsible gambling practices provide special tests designed to detect signs of addiction. Regularly taking these tests is highly recommended to keep track of your behaviour and ensure gambling remains a safe and enjoyable pastime.
How can I avoid addiction?
Effective measures can help prevent addiction. If you find it challenging to control your gambling spending, consider using the following tools:
- Set limits: Restrict the time you spend playing, as well as your spending and deposit amounts. Most casinos require you to contact support to enable these options, though many modern platforms allow you to set limits directly in your account settings.
- Opt out of marketing: Casinos often draw attention with promotions, new games, and bonuses. Unsubscribing from these notifications can help you avoid unnecessary temptation.
- Self-limitation: Take a break from gambling by temporarily disabling access for a day, a week, a month, or longer.
- Self-exclusion: Block your access to gambling activities for at least one year to ensure a more extended break.
Protection of minors
Responsible gaming involves strictly restricting access to gambling platforms for minors. Children and adolescents lack fully developed cognitive control, making it difficult for them to regulate their actions effectively. As a result, exposure to gambling can significantly harm their mental and emotional development.
For this reason, gambling laws worldwide prohibit individuals under the age of 18 from participating in such activities. Casinos actively support this policy by implementing robust identity verification processes, including personal document checks, to ensure that all players meet the legal age requirement.
What organisations exist to help players?
Here are several organisations in the UK that provide support and assistance to individuals struggling with gambling-related issues:
- GamCare
GamCare offers free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by problem gambling. Their services include a confidential helpline, live chat, and access to treatment programs across the UK. - National Gambling Helpline
Operated by GamCare, this helpline provides 24/7 support for individuals dealing with gambling issues. It’s accessible via phone or live chat. - Gambling Therapy
Gambling Therapy offers online support and advice for individuals dealing with gambling addiction, including live support groups and forums. It also provides resources for international users. - Gamblers Anonymous UK
Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences to help others overcome gambling addiction. They offer local meetings across the UK and online support. - BeGambleAware
BeGambleAware provides information and resources to help people make informed decisions about gambling. They also connect users to support services like the National Gambling Helpline.
These organisations provide a range of support services, including helplines, individual counselling, therapy programmes, and educational resources for families. Assistance is available for both those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.