Balancing Risk and Fun: Understanding Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling is a multidimensional term that includes several rules and specifications that pertain to all gambling interested parties. These rules and specifications ensure that they uphold the finest possible performance norms and provide a secure customer journey that guards against any unforeseen drawbacks of online wagering.
While most Aussie players can approach gambling as entertainment and merely expend money they can manage to lose, it might be particularly challenging for other individuals. Gambling should be viewed as an enjoyable hobby rather than a way to get money. The online gambling sector, wherein security is of the utmost importance, is adversely affected by seven responsible gambling areas: prevention of underage gambling, protection of vulnerable players, ensuring internet transaction security and a reliable digital environment, safeguarding private information, promoting responsible and ethical advertising, and implementing measures to prevent unlawful activities.
If you are feeling a lack of control over yourself, both mentally and financially, you can be at risk of developing gambling addiction.
The Addictive Nature of Gambling
There are some people who easily succumb to gambling and the situation is even worse if there is a chance of real winnings at stake. When the anticipation of winning and the fear of losing are combined, these feelings stimulate a strong release of dopamine, so it is easy to fall into the dopamine trap.
Based on research made by AGRC (Australian Gambling Research Centre) most Australians expressed concern about the availability of gambling and its impacts on the community, believing that there are 'too many opportunities for gambling nowadays' (77%) and that gambling is 'dangerous for family life' (68%) and 'should be discouraged' (59%). Among those who gambled, almost half (46%) were classified as being at some risk of gambling harm.
A certain amount of consistency is enough for this behaviour to become ingrained. It becomes extremely difficult to resist the urge to gamble, even if it has real negative consequences and directly affects the quality of life.
Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing the signs of problem gambling is the first step in overcoming an addiction. There are certain signs of problem gambling that you should look out for in order to identify and overcome gambling addiction. We can help you identify if your beloved one has a gambling problem. Often, the signs can be imperceptible until financial issues appear. We'll have a look at these indicators.
Financial Signs
One of several foreseeable indications of a gaming issue is financial difficulties. The financial repercussions of a gambling habit are enormous and can involve increasing debt, financial instability, decreased expendable cash, joblessness, and loss of residence or property. Listed here are several financial red flags that can point to compulsive gambling.
- Vanished household goods and possessions
- Lacking money while earning a steady paycheck
- Getting multiple loans open at once
- Unresolved bills
- Routinely taking out loans
- Keeping financial records private
Mood and Behavioral Signs
Signs of gambling problems, like other addictions, usually manifest themselves in negative behavioural outcomes. By examining the emotional and behavioural patterns of people with gambling problems, we can begin to recognize the warning signs.
- Hostile when barred from gambling
- Angry and anxious while not gambling
- Mood swings, including severe anxiety and depression
- Difficulty regulating the behaviour of certain processes as well
- Using falsehoods and threats to control other people
Time Indications
Punters become unable to quit thinking about their most recent gambling session and upcoming wagers when addiction occurs. Any justification for gambling is acceptable, and they will employ any method to obtain the required funds. This will cause people to spend an excessive amount of time gambling which may lead to:
- Gambling for longer periods
- Lengthy completion times for simple jobs
- Never on time for appointments
- Frequently takes leave from work to gamble
- Neglecting personal relationships and social activities
Assessing Your Gambling Addiction: the Quiz
Gambling addiction is now acknowledged as a medical condition, having been incorporated into the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) by the World Health Organization (WHO) on June 18, 2018. It's vital to remember that patterns of gambling addiction can vary greatly and a formal diagnosis of this clinical disorder can only be provided by certified professionals.
Avoiding Unhealthy Gamblers Habits
When it comes to gambling, many individuals are prone to various unhealthy habits that can negatively impact their financial and emotional well-being. Here are some effective ways to avoid unhealthy gambling habits and maintain control over your gambling activities:
You should set weekly or monthly deposit limits. The amount you will set should be the money you can afford to lose. This will help you monitor the amount you've spent on gambling and it's an easier way of incurring a great money loss.
Sticking to your bankroll budget doesn't necessarily imply staying within it. Instead, it implies that you should never place a wager worth more than your daily spending limit. If you have trouble with this, you might need to set up procedures to prevent yourself from obtaining extra funds.
Whenever you lose, you can feel tempted to try to make up for it. When a session is coming to a conclusion and you are unable to quit, the desire may become even more powerful. Due to the risk of increasing your deficit, you should never try to recuperate from losses.
Any kind of alcohol or drug can mess with your mind state and influence you to take unwise and irresponsible decisions which may lead to unfortunate consequences. Play with your mind clean, calm and sober.
By establishing loss limitations, you may exert better discipline over your gambling. For a chosen period, set a cap on the money you could waste. The cap may be set for daily, weekly, monthly, or an entire year.
Gambling may not be the best idea when you’re feeling angry, stressed or upset since this can influence you to take bad and unwise decisions, and the consequences may make you feel even worse.
You should keep in mind how your play is going. Track your wins and losses regularly to help you decide when to stop placing bets so you will not lose more cash.
The choice of whether to dwell in capital adequacy or instability may depend on receiving proper help from a psychological health or addiction specialist. Comprehensive treatment techniques can help you improve the abilities you already have while also teaching you how to avoid gambling. as early as possible. Much greater, you can attend a support network while getting professional assistance.
Key Strategies for Overcoming Gambling Addiction
Overcoming a gambling addiction can be challenging, but it is possible with the right approach and support. Here are some steps you can take to overcome a gambling addiction:
The first step in overcoming a gambling addiction is acknowledging that you have a problem. This can be difficult, but it is essential to getting the help you need.
There are many resources available for people struggling with gambling addiction, including therapists, support groups, and hotlines. A mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
It is important to identify the triggers that lead to your gambling addiction. Common triggers include stress, boredom, and loneliness.
To replace your gambling addiction, you can develop new habits that help you cope with stress or boredom. This can include exercising, reading, or pursuing a new hobby.
Limiting your access to money can help you control your gambling addiction. This can include setting a budget, using prepaid methods or vouchers instead of credit cards, and avoiding online gambling sites.
Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family members can help you stay accountable and motivated. Consider joining a support group for people with gambling addiction.
Remember, overcoming a gambling addiction is a process that takes time and effort. Don't be too hard on yourself if you have setbacks, and always reach out for help when you need it. Try to use all the responsible gambling tips stated above.
Keeping Children Safe
Gambling problem is spread widely around Australia, affecting not only adults but also underage people. Children may discover gambling through their parents, other family members, or friends, which may lead them to follow the example of their environment.
Australian Gambling Research Centre states that about 5% of 16-17 year-olds reported betting on sports games as well as horse and dog races which have strict age restrictions. Even though it's not legal, about 2% of 16-17 year-olds reported having spent money on poker machines, casino table games and Keno.
Gambling addiction can negatively influence the child and lead to such problems as financial problems, mental health problems, physical health problems or family violence. Such behavioural patterns as changes in sleep and appetite, moodiness and tiredness, money landing from family members and friends, developing bad habits such as smoking, drinking, or drug usage may be the signs of your child developing a gambling problem.
To prevent it from happening or developing further, make sure to follow next steps:
Explain to your child how gambling works: gambling may be all fun and games in the beginning, but turn into a huge issue if you don’t have the right approach to gaming. It may not be easy and comfortable to discuss such a topic, but it’s important to explain to your children all the risks.
It is significant to make sure your child does not have access to your credit or debit card or any other payment options.
To prevent your child from gambling, you can block advertisements that promote casinos, and the websites of casinos themselves, using special blocking software. You also can enable parental control for your child’s devices to control the time they spend online.
It’s significant not only to recognize the bad signs mentioned adobe, but also to remain their biggest supporter, remind them that you love them no matter what and follow their recovery process. It is very possible that you may descry the potential problem by simply talking and listening to your children.
This article mentions several ways people with a developing or developed gambling issue can consider when trying to get rid of their addiction, including a helpline for children.
Problem Gambling Support
There are options provided to Aussies that can help right away if you think you or anyone you know may be experiencing a gambling addiction. Included among these options are specialized counseling services, psychological support programs, and recommendations for self-monitoring and limiting participation in games.
Online support service to help people struggling with a gambling problem. Open 24/7, offers counselling and digital recovery resources.
Australian support service providing help for gambling problems, including counselling, education and self-referral resources.
Nationwide organisation providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention. Help available by phone and online.
Gamblers Anonymous Australia site, supporting meetings around the country and online to help people overcome gambling addiction.
Site offering information and resources to combat gambling problems in New South Wales, Australia. Includes a telephone support line.
Relationships Australia Queensland gambling help program offering counseling, therapy, and education to combat gambling problems.
| If immediate assistance required, call: | |
|---|---|
| Lifeline Australia | 📞 13-11-14 |
| National Gambling Helpline | 📞 1-800-858-858 |
| Free Financial Counseling | 📞 1-800-007-007 |
| Lifeline | 📞 13-11-14 |
| Kids Helpline | 📞 1-800-551-800 |
It is possible that there are social communities or self-help groups that operate in your area. They may be able to help you more effectively.
Taking Control of Your Gambling
Responsible gambling tools play a critical role in preventing and addressing gambling-related problems. They allow people to manage and control their gambling behaviour. Two key tools in this regard are the self-exclusion and filtering tools described below, which will help you to manage unpleasant consequences.
Built-In Casino Tools
If you feel like you are having a gambling problem and want to know how to stay away from pokies, the easiest way could be to close your casino account or use a built-in tool for self-exclusion.
Self-Exclusion is a voluntary process where an individual associated with gambling voluntarily excludes themselves from specific gaming venues or online providers. Information on how to set up self-exclusion can be found on Australian gambling sites. For online casinos, you can download and fill out a self-exclusion application form from the sites. Typically, look for this in the Responsible Gambling or Self-Exclusion section.
The following responsible gambling platforms often encourage users to make the most out of self-exclusion by providing additional support. This may include offering contact details for gambling helplines, educational materials on responsible gambling, and referrals to counseling services for those seeking professional assistance.
Self-Exclusion Program
If, in the case of casino tools, you can block your account in a particular casino or casinos, the more complex step can be including all betting and gambling sites in your stop list. As closing one account doesn’t keep you from signing up at a new casino. Thus, self-exclusion apps and services offer a proactive approach to managing gambling behavior, allowing users to control their gaming activities. These tools empower individuals by allowing them to exclude themselves from gambling platforms voluntarily.
Once registered, an individual's details are securely shared with participating bookmakers. As a result, any attempts to create or use an existing account with these providers will be rejected. In addition to self-exclusion, BetStop provides resources for responsible gambling education and helplines for emotional and financial support. The platform encourages users to use these services to maintain a healthy relationship with gambling. While not a universal solution to problem gambling, BetStop strives to return control to the consumer and provide a barrier against potential gambling problems. This Australian initiative represents a significant step forward in responsible gambling practices.
- Supported by the government
- Great coverage of gambling providers
- Easy access to counseling support
- Limited functionality on some platforms
Regardless of the selected mode, the Registry provides real-time updates of blacklisted platforms and uses advanced technology to prevent circumvention attempts. Moreover, it offers resources for identifying early signs of gambling addiction and methods to address it. For parents, it delivers informative material about youth gambling, equipping them with the knowledge to prevent potential issues. Further, the app includes an anonymous feedback option for users to report any non-compliant platforms, contributing to the ongoing refinement and improvement of the registry. This approach, therefore, not only offers protection but also invites community participation in curbing online gambling risks, fostering a safer digital environment.
| Available at following platforms: |
|---|
| Windows, Mac & iOS, Linux, Android, Kindle Fire, Huawei Devices (via AppGallery) |
- Self-exclusion and Parent modes
- Own base of gambling sites
- Free to use
- Some sites may malfunction
Besides its main functionality, Betfilter offers several additional features aimed at promoting responsible gambling. Users receive proactive notifications that discourage impulsive betting actions and gently remind them of their commitment to control their gambling habits. The app provides a daily, weekly, or monthly usage report, allowing users to track their progress over time. This personalized feedback loop helps instill more disciplined gambling behavior. Furthermore, Betfilter extends its reach beyond individual users by offering resources and tools for families to support loved ones struggling with gambling issues.
| Available at following platforms: |
|---|
| Windows, Mac & iOS, Linux, Android |
- Unable to uninstall or cancel blocking during subscription period
- Ease of use and customizationSupport on various platforms
- Available on a subscription basis
Filtration Systems
Special programs allow you to block all internet traffic to and from gambling sites. They can also help you avoid seeing gambling ads and even gambling-related search results, so you won't be tempted to start gambling again. So we can say the following services provide reliable protection and control over access to inappropriate or harmful sites.
Net Nanny works by using an Internet filter that blocks search results containing specific keywords. This parental control service provides real-time reports on children's internet searches and application usage. The system alerts you to malicious content. Net Nanny also allows you to manage screen time and block specific applications on your child's device. With these comprehensive features, Net Nanny creates a safer digital environment for families, making it a trusted partner in keeping kids safe online. The app is paid, with subscriptions based on the number of devices served.
| Available at following platforms: |
|---|
| Windows, Mac & iOS, Linux, Android, Kindle Fire |
- Effectively block unwanted content online
- Constant updates to combat new threats
- Convenient parental monitoring and filtering controls
- Possible false positives and blocking of useful content
It is a comprehensive self-exclusion tool to combat gambling addiction. It uses powerful website and application blockers to proactively prevent access to gambling platforms, reducing temptation and promoting healthier online behaviour. Easy to install, it is able to detect and respond to prolonged casino activity. The service uses advanced algorithms and heuristics to constantly update blacklists, preventing access to unpublished sites and stopping the installation of gambling applications. Its robust software can withstand factory resets, eliminating the possibility of uninstallation. Discounts are available when protecting multiple devices and licences are available for both personal and corporate use.
| Available at following platforms: |
|---|
| Windows, Mac & iOS, Linux, Android |
- Сannot be circumvented by using a VPN
- Allows blocking gambling on smartphones
- Is available as one or more licenses for personal users
- Uninstalling the program is not allowed, which may cause inconvenience
Australian Banks Blocking Gambling Transactions
A number of Australian banks and financial institutions have recently introduced a feature that allows customers to ban gambling on their credit and debit cards. In this article, we provide an overview of the options currently offered to customers of some Australian banks.
Generally, the ban will take effect immediately upon request. However, the time it takes for the blocking to be canceled can vary, but usually is at most two business days. Credit/debit card gambling blocking methods vary by bank or financial institution. In most cases, customers must submit a request, but some organizations provide the option to activate the feature via a mobile app.
All qualifying credit and debit cards can access the gambling-blocking feature. You can activate the Gambling Lock by logging into your Online Banking and selecting it from the Card Services menu. Alternatively, you can contact the bank's Customer Service team. To learn more about this feature, please review the relevant Terms and Conditions for your specific credit or debit card.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 13-22-66 | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday to Friday |
- Availability of gambling block via online banking
CommBank offers support for customers with gambling problems, including a 6-month Commonwealth bank gambling block for gambling spending from any CommBank Mastercard debit or credit cards. Their team of community wellbeing specialists can provide confidential support, helping with financial difficulties, blocking gambling and cash transactions on your cards, and connecting you to additional support services.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 1800-222-387 | 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday to Friday |
- Additional support services
- Dedicated wellbeing team
The NAB app allows credit cardholders to turn gambling restrictions on and off, including sports betting, casino games, lotteries, and online gambling. Restrictions can be managed in the Usage Controls section of the card. Once changes are made, it takes 48 hours to update preferences. You can cancel the request if necessary. If a restriction is set on one card, it automatically applies to all linked cards.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 1300-308-175 | 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday to Friday |
- Availability of gambling block via online banking
- 48-Hour block delay cancellation
Block Gambling on credit and debit cards help control personal spending by preventing gambling transactions. The feature can be activated in online banking under the Card Services menu or by calling the customer service line. This can help avoid gambling-related financial difficulties. Joint account holders can activate or deactivate the lock for their cards only. Please review the Terms and Conditions for your card before using the feature.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 132-032 | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday to Friday |
- Availability of gambling block via online banking
Use the Block Gambling feature to regulate spending by disallowing gambling transactions on your cards. Enable it via your online bank's Card Services or via Customer Support service. This tool helps to prevent gambling-induced financial issues. Only joint account holders can control this feature for their cards. Ensure to review your card's Terms and Conditions before usage.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 13-22-73 | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday to Friday |
- Availability of gambling block via online banking
St George Bank also offers the gambling blocking feature to help their customers control their spendings on betting and casinos. To enable the Block Gambling, login to Internet Banking and activate gambling block in the Card Services menu, or call the helpline number.
| Helpline: | Working Hours: |
|---|---|
| 📞 13-33-30 | 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday |
- Availability of gambling block via online banking
Alternatives to Gambling
Overcoming a gambling addiction is not the end of the journey, it requires a continuous effort to stay on the path of recovery and resist the temptation to gamble again. With the widespread availability of online gambling platforms, staying away from gambling can be challenging, but there are numerous alternatives to gambling that one can explore, even if they are not struggling with addiction.
| Reason For Gambling | Alternative to Gambling |
|---|---|
| Thrilling sensation accompanied by a surge of adrenaline | You have the option to engage in activities and interests that elicit comparable emotions. A few illustrations comprise rock climbing, mountain biking, go-kart racing, bungee jumping, rafting, and paragliding. |
| Communal dimension to it as you engage with other individuals | However, it's not possible to completely avoid your problems. Nonetheless, there are constructive approaches to deal with them efficiently. Engaging in therapy, self-improvement techniques, mindfulness practices like meditation, and physical activity are beneficial ways to cope with the stressors of daily life. |
| Allows you to forget about your problems and unwind after a long day | While it's impossible to completely avoid your problems, you can find ways to better cope with them. Therapy, self-help, meditation, and physical exercise are healthy ways to manage the stress of everyday life. |
| Helps alleviate feelings of boredom and loneliness | Discover a pursuit that ignites your enthusiasm, such as music, art, sports, literature, or other hobbies, and seek out like-minded individuals to connect with. |
| The mistaken belief that gambling can help solve financial problems | As the popular adage suggests, the odds are stacked in favor of the house in gambling. The very nature of this activity is based on chance, making it impossible to emerge victorious every time. It is crucial to seek financial counseling to effectively manage any debts incurred. |
How to Help Someone Stop Gambling
Having a gambling addiction is scary and complicated, but seeing your loved ones losing themselves because of this while feeling absolutely helpless is also a hard challenge to take. Let’s try to discover how to help people with gambling addiction.
The nature and motives of addiction to anything, whether it's gambling, alcohol or a drug, cannot be fully understood by people who are not addicted. Try to understand that the person you want to help if struggling and is not able to have full control over their actions and decisions. It may require a lot of patience, but there’s no need to judge, verbally or physically abuse them – try to simply talk instead and offer them your support.
It’s important to discuss with the addicted person what consequences their actions may lead to. Try to avoid confrontation and find a calm and nice way of explaining how their addiction may affect you, their family and friends, and their life in general.
If the addiction is completely taking over the person, and you feel that your help if not enough – propose ways of receiving professional support for that person. This article mentions several options for people with gambling addiction.
The addiction can be recognized by such signs as lying about money spending, unsuccessful attempts to quit gambling, financial problems, and developing mental health issues.
People start to gamble for different reasons: depression, boredom, lack of socialization or stress. Our article covers the “Alternatives to Gambling” topic, explaining how to replace the addiction with other activities, such as meditating or sports.
John Gold
Editor-in-chief
Starting as a typical gambler, I was interested in how the industry works. And now, for more than 10 years, I see myself as a gambling expert. After trying out more than 500 pokies, I'm ready to share my insights and tell you what you need to look at to get a good gaming experience.