Gambling can become an all consuming addiction for a minority of people and is a difficult problem, as a society, to deal with. We can all say to a problem gambler “gamble responsibly” but we cannot get into their heads in-order to determine their true motivations.
The vast majority of people frequenting casinos are there for a bit of fun or socialising, but far too often I see people playing slots clearly unable to afford what the cash they are losing. I am the first to admit I should not judge people, but I can’t help but feel sorry for them.
Never gamble with your families well-being, only wager amounts you can comfortably afford to lose.
Has always been my motto
If you have ever asked yourself “am I a problem gambler?” then you likely are and should seek help. There is no shame admitting you have a problem and it’s the first step toward changing your life.
Help is available in Australia by calling 1800 858 858 or visiting their website; https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/
Play for fun not income
Being a responsible gambler involves adopting certain principles and practices to ensure your gambling remains a form of entertainment rather than a problem or addiction.
It is important you understand some gambling basics;
- Set a Budget:
- Determine how much money you can afford to lose before you start gambling. Set a specific budget for each session casino visit and stick to it. Never exceed your budget or gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Determine how much money you can afford to lose before you start gambling. Set a specific budget for each session casino visit and stick to it. Never exceed your budget or gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
- Understand the Risks:
- Recognise that gambling carries inherent risks, and the odds are typically in favour of the house. Accept that you are more likely to lose your wager than to win it. Treat gambling as a recreational activity, and never as a source of income.
- Recognise that gambling carries inherent risks, and the odds are typically in favour of the house. Accept that you are more likely to lose your wager than to win it. Treat gambling as a recreational activity, and never as a source of income.
- Time Management:
- Set limits on the amount of time you spend gambling. Avoid excessive gambling sessions that may negatively impact other aspects of your life, such as work, relationships, or personal well-being. Take regular breaks, and engage in other activities to maintain balance.
- Set limits on the amount of time you spend gambling. Avoid excessive gambling sessions that may negatively impact other aspects of your life, such as work, relationships, or personal well-being. Take regular breaks, and engage in other activities to maintain balance.
- Avoid Chasing Losses:
- If you experience losses, resist the urge to chase them by increasing your bets or gambling impulsively. Accept losses as part of the game and move on. Emotional decision-making driven by losses can lead to bigger financial problems.
- If you experience losses, resist the urge to chase them by increasing your bets or gambling impulsively. Accept losses as part of the game and move on. Emotional decision-making driven by losses can lead to bigger financial problems.
- Know the Games:
- Learn the rules and strategies of the games you play. Understanding the odds and probabilities can help you make informed decisions and improve your chances of winning. Avoid games with high house edges or excessive risks. Slot machines have an incredibly high house edge.
- Learn the rules and strategies of the games you play. Understanding the odds and probabilities can help you make informed decisions and improve your chances of winning. Avoid games with high house edges or excessive risks. Slot machines have an incredibly high house edge.
- Self-Awareness:
- Be aware of your emotions and mental state while gambling. Avoid gambling when you’re feeling upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Such conditions can impair your judgement and lead to reckless behaviour.
- Be aware of your emotions and mental state while gambling. Avoid gambling when you’re feeling upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Such conditions can impair your judgement and lead to reckless behaviour.
- Seek Support:
- If you find it challenging to maintain responsible gambling habits or if you suspect a gambling problem, don’t hesitate to seek support. There are helplines, support groups, and professional counsellors available who can provide assistance and guidance.
Remember, responsible gambling is about enjoying the activity in moderation while maintaining control over your finances and emotions.
Losing what you cannot afford destroys lives! Your husband, wife or children will be harmed by irresponsible gambling activities. Don’t do it.
Gamble Responsibly
Gambling responsibly means having a plan. Don’t overstay and never exceed your budget.
Your budget should include two things;
- Initial Bank;
- for example set $500 as the maximum you will spend all day.
- for example set $500 as the maximum you will spend all day.
- Losses;
- Once your initial Bank has been exhausted, stop playing and walk away.
Casinos in Australia have a Responsible Gaming Centre
They are hard to find unless you are wandering around aimlessly and stumble upon it. Am I implying they don’t want you to find them? I think that’s exactly why it is hard to find.
We recently spent a few days at Crown Resorts in Perth and I stumbled, completely by accident, on the Responsible Gaming Centre which they have hidden from high traffic areas. Unless you are looking for it you wont find it.
On a side note, we never saw a Responsible Gaming Centre, or similar, in any of the many Las Vegas casinos we’ve visited.
Call 1800 858 858 or visit https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/ if you think gambling is a problem for you or someone you know.
