Responsible Gaming

Maintaining control over your gaming activities helps ensure that gambling remains an enjoyable form of entertainment. Here are practical strategies to help you play responsibly:

• Set a budget before you start playing. Decide how much you can afford to lose and never exceed that amount.
• Use deposit limits. Most online casinos allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from the screen every 30-60 minutes to maintain perspective.
• Never chase losses. Accept losses as part of the game and avoid trying to win back money you’ve lost.
• Keep gambling separate from other activities. Don’t gamble when you’re upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol.
• Track your time and money. Monitor how much you’re spending and how long you’re playing each session.
• Set win and loss limits. Decide in advance when to stop, whether you’re winning or losing.
• Don’t borrow money to gamble. Only use funds you can afford to lose without affecting your daily expenses.
• Balance gambling with other activities. Maintain hobbies, social connections, and responsibilities outside of gaming.
• Use reality checks. Enable session reminders that alert you about how long you’ve been playing.

Recognising the warning signs of problem gambling is the first step towards getting help. If you notice any of these behaviours in yourself or someone you care about, it may be time to seek support:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford. Your gambling budget regularly exceeds what you planned.
• Lying to family or friends about your gambling activities. You hide the extent of your gaming or minimise how much you play.
• Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities. Gambling takes priority over important commitments.
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling. You’re taking loans or using credit to continue playing.
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down. You experience anxiety or mood changes when you’re not gambling.
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative feelings. You use gaming as a way to cope with stress, depression, or loneliness.
• Chasing losses persistently. You return the next day trying to win back money you’ve lost.
• Jeopardising relationships or career opportunities. Your gambling has damaged important aspects of your life.
• Feeling guilty or ashamed about your gambling. You regret your behaviour but feel unable to stop.
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed. Other hobbies and interests no longer appeal to you.

Online casino gaming is strictly restricted to individuals who have reached the legal age of majority in their jurisdiction. In India, this typically means players must be 18 years or older to register and participate in online gambling activities. Licensed operators implement age verification procedures during registration to prevent underage gambling. Parents and guardians should monitor internet usage and use parental control software to prevent minors from accessing gambling websites.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary tool that allows you to block access to your gambling account for a set period. Most reputable online casinos offer self-exclusion options ranging from 24 hours to several months or permanently. During the exclusion period, you cannot access your account, deposit funds, or participate in any gaming activities. This cooling-off period gives you time to reassess your relationship with gambling and seek professional support if needed. To activate self-exclusion, contact the casino’s customer support team or look for the responsible gaming settings in your account. Many operators also participate in multi-operator exclusion schemes that block access across multiple gambling platforms simultaneously.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, professional help is available. These organisations provide confidential support, counselling, and treatment options:

• Gamblers Anonymous India – A fellowship of individuals who share their experiences and support each other in recovery from gambling addiction. They offer regular meetings in major cities.
• SHUT Clinic (Service for Healthy Use of Technology) – Located at NIMHANS, Bangalore, this clinic provides counselling and treatment for behavioural addictions including gambling.
• Manas Foundation – A mental health organisation offering support and treatment for addiction issues across India.
• Vandrevala Foundation Helpline – A free 24/7 mental health helpline (1860-2662-345) providing immediate support and guidance.
• iCall Psychosocial Helpline – A counselling service by TISS offering support for mental health concerns including gambling problems (9152987821).
• Alcoholics Anonymous India – While focused on alcohol addiction, many AA groups also support individuals dealing with gambling addiction.
• Local psychiatrists and psychologists – Mental health professionals in your area can provide personalised treatment plans and therapy.

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These resources are confidential and designed to support your recovery journey.