Responsible gambling
Gambling always carries a risk of losing money, and for some people it becomes hard to control. This page covers the warning signs, ways to set limits and where to find support.
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This site doesn’t take bets. It explains how betting lines work. If gambling is affecting you or someone close to you, help is available, and it’s never too early to ask for it.
What the risk is
- Any bet can lose. Only stake money you can afford to lose.
- The prices include a margin. On most markets the prices on all sides add up to more than 100%, as explained in the glossary. Across all bets on a market, the bookmaker expects to pay out less than it takes in.
- It can become hard to stop. Problem gambling can affect anyone, whatever their age, income or experience.
- Adults only. Gambling is only legal for adults, and the minimum age depends on where you live.
Warning signs
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you, or someone close to you:
- spends more money or time on it than planned
- tries to win back losses by betting more (“chasing losses”)
- borrows money, or uses money meant for bills, to gamble
- hides gambling from family or friends, or lies about it
- feels restless or irritable when trying to cut down
- gambles to escape stress, worry or low mood
- finds it’s affecting work, study, sleep or relationships
Ways to limit yourself
- Set a budget before you start, and stop when it’s gone. Treat it as money spent, not money that might come back.
- Set a time limit, and take regular breaks.
- Don’t chase losses. Betting more to win back money usually leads to bigger losses.
- Don’t gamble when you’re upset, stressed or drinking.
- Use the tools gambling operators offer. Many licensed operators let you set deposit limits, take a time-out, or exclude yourself for a set period. Check your operator’s account settings.
- Use blocking software on your phone or computer to block gambling sites and apps.
- Talk to someone you trust about how much you’re gambling.
Where to get help
Free, confidential support is available.
- Worldwide: Gambling Therapy. Free online support, with live text chat and forums, in many languages. Visit the Gambling Therapy website.
- Worldwide: Gamblers Anonymous. Find a meeting by country, including online meetings, on the Gamblers Anonymous website.
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling, National Problem Gambling Helpline. Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), 24/7. Chat with the helpline online.
- United Kingdom: GamCare, National Gambling Helpline. Freephone 0808 8020 133, 24/7. Web chat is available on the GamCare website.
In immediate danger or crisis, contact your local emergency services.
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