Responsible Gambling

Responsible Gambling

At Online Casino HQ, our commitment to responsible gambling is unwavering. We meticulously select and feature only casinos and online gambling platforms whose operators actively advocate and uphold responsible gambling practices. This Responsible Gambling page serves as a vital hub, offering resources and links to support individuals grappling with gambling addiction.

While online gambling serves as a form of adult entertainment, we acknowledge the potential for individuals to encounter challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, whether online or offline, we urge you to continue reading.

Online Casino HQ’s Safer Gambling Commitment

Online Casino HQ is dedicated to promoting responsible gambling and ensuring our readers have a safe and enjoyable experience when playing at online casinos. We understand the importance of gambling safely and responsibly, and we realize the potential risks posed by problem gambling.

We developed the Online Casino HQ Safer Gambling Commitment to uphold our dedication to promoting responsible gaming. Our expert team reviews each casino on our website, ensuring they take problem gambling seriously. We will never promote a casino or work with a gambling operator who fails to adhere to the responsible gambling standards regulators set out.

We expect all gambling operators we work with to offer self-exclusion programs and take steps to prevent underage gambling. Setting limits is also something we require operators to offer; this includes time limits, deposit limits, and others.

We also offer a comprehensive collection of responsible gambling resources, including links to organizations that can help with problem gambling, educational guides, and detailed articles on different responsible gambling tools.

Despite our best efforts, we understand some of our readers may still struggle with gambling addiction or related issues. If you or someone you know is experiencing problems with gambling, we encourage you to seek professional help and support.

This page provides links to reputable organizations and resources that offer help, support, and treatment options for those affected by problem gambling.

How to Gamble Responsibly

Gambling should be a fun activity, not a means to make money. To ensure your gambling experience remains enjoyable and within your control, stay informed and follow the tips below:

  • Set a budget and stick to it: Setting a gambling budget – deciding on the amount of money you can comfortably afford to lose – is one of the most important parts of gambling. Consider your income and expenses, and be realistic about what you can afford to lose before you start gambling. Never exceed this limit.
  • View gambling as a fun activity, not a means to make money: This should go without saying, but you should never see gambling as a surefire way to make money. Try to treat gambling as a form of entertainment – like going to the movies or out for dinner.
  • Don’t chase losses: Never try to win back money you’ve already lost by depositing more money or playing at higher stakes. While it can appear tempting to try and claw back losses, it rarely works and can lead to a cycle of increasing losses and potential addiction.
  • Know when to stop: It’s hard to walk away when you’re losing, but if you find that gambling is no longer enjoyable or is making you feel stressed, angry, or causing you financial strain, do your best to take a break and seek help if needed.
  • Set time limits: Problem gambling doesn’t just mean spending too much money; it can also include spending too much time gambling. Try to set a time limit before you begin, and stick to it to avoid getting too involved.
  • Don’t gamble under the influence: You should never gamble when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so can significantly impair your judgment and lead to reckless decisions with disastrous financial consequences.
  • Educate yourself: Learn about the games you play, their odds, and strategies to make informed decisions and minimize the risk of excessive losses.
  • Be aware of the signs of problem gambling: Learn and understand the signs of gambling addiction – like lying about losses or taking out loans to gamble – so you’re better prepared to spot if you or a loved one may be developing a gambling problem.
  • Don’t be afraid to seek help: If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling – even if you’re unsure – don’t hesitate to ask for professional support and guidance. Browse the responsible gambling resources on this page for further guidance and help.

Common Signs of a Gambling Addiction

Signs of a gambling problem may include:

  • Secrecy surrounding gambling habits: Feeling the need to conceal the extent of one’s gambling or lying about it, often driven by a belief that others won’t understand or in hopes of surprising them with a significant win.
  • Difficulty controlling gambling impulses: Finding it hard to walk away once gambling starts, leading to the compulsion to continue until all funds are depleted, with increasing bets made in an attempt to recoup losses.
  • Gambling with money that isn’t available: Resorting to desperate measures to recover losses, such as borrowing money, selling possessions, or even resorting to theft, perpetuating a harmful cycle.
  • Concern from family and friends: Loved ones expressing worry about gambling habits, with denial often exacerbating the issue. It’s crucial to heed their concerns and assess how gambling is impacting one’s life without viewing seeking help as a sign of weakness.
  • Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritizing gambling over work, family, or personal obligations, leading to missed deadlines, strained relationships, or financial instability.
  • Experiencing emotional highs and lows: Feeling a rush of excitement when gambling, followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or despair, especially after significant losses.
  • Unsuccessful attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop gambling without success, often thinking there’s ‘nothing you can do’ to stop.
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms: Feeling restless, irritable, or agitated when you can’t gamble, similar to withdrawal symptoms associated with substance addictions.

If you or someone you know is experiencing several of these signs, it may be indicative of a gambling addiction. Take Our Free Gambling Addiction Test or seek professional help.

Recognizing a loved one’s gambling problem:

If someone close to you is struggling with gambling, you may notice:

  • Defensiveness regarding gambling: Increased defensiveness, particularly as losses mount, accompanied by attempts to justify gambling as a means to secure money.
  • Heightened secrecy about finances: Sudden attempts to assert control over household finances or unexplained financial discrepancies despite stable income and expenses.
  • Desperation for gambling funds: Resorting to borrowing money, requesting financial assistance from friends and family, or the unexplained disappearance of valuable assets.

Learn more about helping a loved one deal with a gambling problem.

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Responsible Gambling Resources and Tools at Casinos

Many online casino operators provide responsible gambling tools that are made readily available to players upon signing up and opening an account.

Those who are licensed in the UK, for example, are required, as per the terms of their license from the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, to provide the ability to set limits and reminders. These can include:

  • Deposit limit: A tool that allows players to set a maximum amount of money they can deposit into their account within a specific period (e.g., daily, weekly, or monthly.) Once the limit is reached, no further deposits can be made until the period has passed.
  • Loss limit: Another method of setting limits; players can set a maximum amount of money they are comfortable losing over a set period. If this loss limit is reached, no further bets may be placed until the period has elapsed.
  • Wager limit: This allows players to limit the total amount of money they can wager on a game. For example, a $5 limit would mean no bet larger than $5 could be placed on any casino game.
  • Session time limit: Players can choose how much time they wish to spend gambling in a single session. Once this time limit is reached, they will be given an option to stop playing or continue.
  • Reality check: A pop-up message that displays after 60, 90, or 120 minutes showing the time spent gambling and the amount won or lost. Players can then choose to continue or quit.

Learn more about setting limits and using responsible gambling tools.

These responsible gambling tools are handy facilities; if made available at the casino where you decide to play, OCHQ strongly advises utilizing them. Once you’ve set limits, you have far greater control over your play, minimizing the risk of you experiencing gambling problems.

Remember, gambling is a leisure pastime, and the house ALWAYS has the edge. If you treat it as a night out at the cinema, bars, or a restaurant and budget accordingly, you will be less inclined to find yourself in a tricky financial position!

Self-Exclusion Programs and Time-Outs

Another facility made available by many operators is the ability for players to self-exclude themselves from the casino or take a break for a set minimum number of weeks. Here’s how they both work:

  • Self-exclusion: This feature allows players to voluntarily ban themselves from accessing a casino (and other connected brands) for a specified period (usually ranging from 6 months to 5 years) or permanently. During this time, the casino will close active accounts and completely prevent the player from gambling. Once a player has self-excluded, it is not possible to modify or end the ban early.
  • Time outs: For players who feel they need a short break from gambling, many gambling operators offer a time-out feature. This allows players to temporarily shut their accounts for between 24 hours and six weeks. During this time, players cannot access their accounts or place bets.

If you find yourself playing too long, being able to take a break or self-exclude ensures you stop, even if you have an urge to continue gambling. Learn more about how self-exclusion works and how it can help those with a gambling problem.

Responsible Gambling Helplines and Organizations

At Online Casino HQ, we prioritize the well-being of our users and advocate for responsible gambling practices. We encourage open dialogue and support for those impacted by gambling addiction, aiming to create a safer and healthier online gambling environment for all.

Get Help For a Gambling Problem In The United States

If you are located in the United States, there are several responsible gambling charities that work tirelessly to support individuals affected by problem gambling and to promote responsible gambling practices. Here are some notable organizations:

  1. National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): The NCPG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing issues related to problem gambling. It provides resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by gambling disorders. The organization offers a helpline educational program and conducts research to raise awareness and prevent problem gambling.
    Website: https://www.ncpgambling.org
    Contact Number: 1-800-GAMBLER
  2. Gamblers Anonymous (GA): Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strengths, and hope to help each other recover from a gambling problem. GA provides peer support through regular meetings, where individuals can find understanding and encouragement from others who have faced similar challenges.
    Website: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org
    Contact Number: (909) 931-9056
  3. National Center for Responsible Gaming (NCRG): The NCRG is a nonprofit organization that funds research and promotes evidence-based solutions for gambling disorders. It supports scientific research, education, and public awareness initiatives to understand and address problem gambling and its impacts on individuals and communities.
    Website: https://www.icrg.org
    Contact Number: 978-338-6610
  4. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ): While primarily focused on New Jersey, CCGNJ provides information, support, and referral services for individuals struggling with gambling addiction across the United States. It operates a 24/7 helpline, offers counseling services, and conducts outreach programs to raise awareness about responsible gambling.
    Website: https://800gambler.org
    Contact Number: 800-GAMBLER
  5. Association of Problem Gambling Service Administrators (APGSA): APGSA is an organization that brings together administrators of state-funded problem gambling programs across the United States. It facilitates collaboration, information sharing, and best practices among states to enhance problem gambling prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
    Website: https://naadgs.org
    Contact Number: 402-915-1240

These organizations are crucial in providing support, resources, and education to individuals and communities affected by problem gambling in the United States. Through their efforts, they strive to minimize the negative consequences of gambling disorders and promote healthier gambling behaviors.

Get Help For a Gambling Problem In The United Kingdom

Within the United Kingdom, individuals who think they may have an issue with problem gambling can utilize the support of the following organizations:

  1. BeGambleAware: Formerly known as the Responsible Gambling Trust, BeGambleAware is the leading national charity committed to minimizing gambling-related harm in the UK. It provides support, information, and advice to individuals affected by problem gambling and their families. BeGambleAware operates the National Gambling Helpline and offers a range of online resources and self-help tools.
    Website: https://www.begambleaware.org
    Contact Number: 0808 8020 133
  2. GamCare: GamCare is a UK-based charity that provides support and treatment for individuals affected by problem gambling. It offers various services, including counseling, peer support, and self-help resources. GamCare also works with gambling operators to promote responsible gambling practices and provides training for professionals working in the gambling industry.
    Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk
    Contact Number: 0808 8020 133
  3. Gamblers Anonymous UK: Gamblers Anonymous (GA) has groups throughout the UK that provide mutual support for individuals recovering from problem gambling. GA meetings offer a safe and confidential environment where members can share their experiences, receive support, and work on their recovery journey together.
    Website: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
    Contact Number: 0330 094 0322
  4. GambleAware Scotland: GambleAware Scotland is a division of BeGambleAware that focuses specifically on addressing problem gambling in Scotland. It provides support services, educational resources, and funding for research and treatment initiatives to reduce gambling-related harm in the country.
    Website: https://www.begambleaware.org/tag/scotland
    Contact Number: 0808 8020 133
  5. The Gordon Moody Association: The Gordon Moody Association offers residential treatment programs for individuals experiencing gambling addiction. It provides intensive therapy, counseling, and support to help individuals overcome their gambling problems and rebuild their lives. The organization also offers aftercare services and support for families affected by gambling addiction.
    Website: https://gordonmoody.org.uk
    Contact Number: 01384 241292

All the organizations listed above can also be contacted for advice by concerned friends or family members of individuals who they fear may have an issue with compulsive gambling.

International Gambling Charities, Helplines, and Organizations

Software and Apps to Block Gambling Sites

As the accessibility of online gambling continues to increase, so does the concern for individuals who struggle with controlling their gambling habits. Fortunately, in response to this growing problem, innovative software programs and apps have been released to provide a vital lifeline for those struggling to stop gambling using conventional means.

Known as gambling-blocking software, these programs go further than the responsible gaming tools covered above. They can be installed on the devices of problem gamblers, and once installed, they completely block access to all gambling sites.

While each program works differently, they are designed to prevent access to any gambling site. Problem gamblers can choose a complete ban – which can’t be removed until a preselected time has passed – or, with some programs, they can set schedules, blocking any online gambling site between certain hours, for example.

These programs use a combination of advanced algorithms and regularly updated databases to identify and block gambling sites, and while not foolproof, they’re very difficult to uninstall. Learn more about how to block gambling sites.

BetBlocker

BetBlocker is currently the only non-commercial blocking app on the market, and it’s 100% free – forever. By offering a free and user-friendly tool for self-exclusion from online gambling platforms, which works on a multitude of devices, BetBlocker empowers individuals to take proactive steps towards recovery and seek assistance when needed.

BetBlocker aims to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to address their gambling habits through its comprehensive blocking capabilities and customizable settings. It’s funded entirely by donations and, in Online Casino HQ’s opinion, is the best solution for problem gamblers.

Visit the BetBlocker website –> https://betblocker.org 

GamBan

Gamban is a powerful software tool designed to block access to online gambling websites and apps. Developed to promote responsible gambling practices, Gamban offers a straightforward yet effective way for individuals to self-exclude from online gambling platforms.

Once installed on a device, GamBan blocks access to thousands of gambling websites, providing users with a barrier to help them resist the temptation to gamble. While GamBan used to be free of charge, high maintenance costs left the developers no choice but to charge a small fee for the software. Still, it’s solid software and can be installed by trusted family members.

Visit the GamBan website –> https://gamban.com

GamBlock

GamBlock is one of the oldest gambling-blocking tools. It can also be used to help with responsible gaming and prevent underage gambling. It’s not the cheapest program, but back in the day, it was one of the best. Today, cheaper or free alternatives have, in some regards, left GamBlock behind, but it’s still a solid program.

GamBlock can also block online gambling websites on multiple devices, offering flexible subscription plans and a regularly updated database of blocked sites.

Visit the GamBlock website –> https://gamblock.com

Self-Exclusion Services

Many territories where online gambling is regulated now offer an all-in-one self-exclusion service for players to use. Signing up and registering with these sites enables you to self-exclude and lock yourself out from all licensed operator sites within the territory that you reside in. This includes casinos, sports betting sites, poker halls, and any gambling entertainment site accepting bets.

Utilizing a self-exclusion service in conjunction with blocking apps such as BetBlocker or Gamban on your internet-enabled devices will help ensure that should the temptation and urge to gamble reoccur, you will find it increasingly hard to be able to. Responsible gaming and safer gambling is all about setting up as many roadblocks as possible.

GAMSTOP

GAMSTOP is a self-exclusion service for online gambling in the United Kingdom. It allows users to voluntarily exclude themselves from all UK-licensed gambling websites and apps for a chosen period, typically between six months to five years.

Gamstop aims to help individuals control their gambling habits by providing a simple and effective way to limit their access to online gambling platforms.

All operators with a United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) license are now required to integrate with GAMSTOP, one of the best responsible gaming tools in the world. It set high responsible gambling standards for other regulators to follow, and we are now beginning to see other licensing jurisdictions release similar schemes.

Check out our dedicated GAMSTOP guide to help you understand how it works and what to do.

Visit the official GAMSTOP website.

Spelpaus

Spelpaus is a self-exclusion register for online gambling in Sweden. It enables users to block themselves from accessing licensed gambling websites and apps for a selected period, typically from one to twelve months, with an option for indefinite exclusion.

Spelpaus aims to support individuals in managing their gambling habits by providing a straightforward and efficient means to restrict their online gambling activities. While family members can’t set these limits themselves, it’s a solid, responsible gaming tool that works similarly to GAMSTOP.

Visit the official Spelpaus website.

Protecting Children From Gambling

Underage gambling is a serious problem, and while legitimate casinos and sports betting sites will never knowingly accept underage players, their verification checks and underage gambling prevention measures aren’t foolproof. Here are some tips you can use to prevent, detect, and help your child if you worry they may be gambling online.

  • Communicate With Your Children: Talk to your children about what gambling is, explaining both the fun and risks involved. Discuss the potential risks like financial problems, debt, and addiction. Keep the lines of communication open so they feel comfortable coming to you with questions.
  • Model Responsible Gaming Behavior: Set a good example by practicing responsible gaming yourself if they’re old enough to understand you gamble. Always show your children you prioritize their needs over gambling. Children pick up on your habits, so model the behavior you want to see in them.
  • Check Their Online Activity: Monitor the sites your kids visit and games they play online, as many now incorporate gambling-like elements. Ensure you understand things like loot boxes to explain the risks. For younger children, you may want to consider using parental controls to block access to gambling sites.
  • Teach Money Management Skills: Help your children learn the value of money and how to make smart financial choices from a young age. Doing so will teach them important financial skills, helping them to better manage their money in the future and avoid debt.
  • Offer Judgment-Free Support: If you suspect your child has a gambling problem, express your concern and offer support in a caring, non-judgmental way. Getting angry with them risks making things worse and could make them go to greater lengths to hide their gambling. Remind them that help is available, and you’ll get through it together.

Most importantly, try to maintain open and honest communication with your child. Explain what problem gambling looks like, teach them the basics of safer gambling if they’re nearing a legal gambling age, and monitor their devices for signs of gambling activities if you feel it’s appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is responsible gambling?
  • How can I gamble responsibly online?
  • What are some common signs of a gambling addiction?
  • What responsible gambling tools are available at online casinos?
  • How do self-exclusion programs work?
  • What organizations can help with gambling problems in the United States?
  • What software and apps are available to block gambling sites?
  • What is GAMSTOP?
  • How can I protect my children from underage gambling?
  • What should I do if I think I or someone I know has a gambling problem?