Responsible Gaming

Taking control of your gaming habits starts with simple, practical steps. Here are proven strategies to keep your gambling safe and enjoyable:

• Set a budget before you start playing and never exceed it
• Decide on time limits for each gaming session
• Never chase losses by increasing bets or playing longer
• Take regular breaks to maintain perspective
• Avoid gambling when upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol
• Keep gambling separate from other responsibilities like work or family time
• Use deposit limits and loss limits offered by operators
• Track your spending and review it weekly
• Never borrow money to gamble
• Remember that gambling is entertainment, not a way to earn money

Recognising warning signs early can help you or someone you care about get support before problems escalate. Watch for these indicators:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
• Difficulty stopping or reducing gambling despite wanting to
• Lying to family or friends about gambling activities
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
• Chasing losses by gambling again to recover money
• Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling losses
• Preoccupation with gambling even when not playing

Online casino gaming is restricted to individuals who have reached the legal age of majority. Operators verify age during registration to prevent underage gambling. You must provide valid identification documents to confirm your eligibility. Protecting minors from gambling harm remains a shared responsibility between operators, parents, and the community.

Self-exclusion programmes allow you to voluntarily block access to your gaming account for a specified period. This tool helps individuals who recognise they need a break from gambling. You can request self-exclusion directly through the operator’s responsible gaming section or customer support. During the exclusion period, you cannot access your account, make deposits, or receive promotional materials. The duration typically ranges from six months to several years, and the decision cannot be reversed until the period expires. This cooling-off time gives you space to address underlying issues and rebuild healthy habits.

Professional support is available if you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction. These organisations provide confidential assistance:

• Alcoholics Anonymous India – Offers support groups and counselling services adapted for gambling issues (www.aaindia.org)
• SHUT Clinic – Service for Healthy Use of Technology at NIMHANS, Bengaluru, provides treatment for behavioural addictions including gambling (080-2699-5250)
• iCall – Psychosocial helpline by TISS offering free counselling via phone and email (9152987821, [email protected])
• Vandrevala Foundation – 24/7 mental health support helpline (1860-266-2345)
• Fortis Stress Helpline – Professional counselling for addiction and mental health concerns (8376804102)
• Mann Talks – Mental health support including addiction counselling (8686139139)

Reaching out for help demonstrates strength, not weakness. These services maintain strict confidentiality and understand the challenges you face.