Gambling is a fun activity you can do with friends or family. However, it can become a problem if you start feeling out of control. Problem gambling is common and affects millions of people. Do you feel like your gambling may be getting out of hand? There are some things that you can do to protect yourself—and your loved ones.
Use tools to control gambling like gamstop
For those who want to protect themselves from problem gambling, GamStop is a free tool that can help you to set limits and goals. It helps you to set a budget and stick to it at non gamstop gambling sites. It lets you track your progress in different ways. This includes time, money spent, or the number of bets placed.
Furthermore, it keeps track of what’s happened in the past. Therefore, you can see if there are any patterns in your gambling behavior that need addressing. Also, it allows others close to you—such as family members—to get involved. Hence, they know how often and how much money has been spent on gambling.
GamStop is easy to use. Users must enter their name and date of birth before selecting which type of betting they wish to control (in-play betting options may be available). GamStop then generates an avatar image based on this information.
Try self-exclusion
Self-exclusion is a voluntary process that allows you to avoid the temptation of playing in casinos and betting shops. You can choose which gambling providers you wish to exclude yourself from, for how long and at what point in your gambling journey.
You can find out more about self-exclusion by contacting the UK National Gambling Helpline or visit their website www.gambleaware.co.uk.This is where there’s also an online questionnaire for working out whether you have a problem with gambling or not.
A recent report by charity GambleAware found that half of those who had tried self-exclusion reported it as being “very effective.” Also, while just 20 percent said they did not believe it was effective (the rest were unsure).
Gambler’s Help
Gambler’s Help is a free service, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They’re also confidential and will keep your information private. It’s easy to get in touch with them—call the number on the back of your credit card or go online.
There are also live chat options on their website for when you need assistance but aren’t comfortable talking on the phone (or even want someone to talk with). You can also send an email if you prefer that option over speaking face-to-face or typing messages into an IM window.
The Gambler’s Help program runs education classes for gamblers. Hence, they can learn how problem gambling affects them and how best to manage their symptoms moving forward. They offer individual counseling sessions with therapists who specialize in addiction recovery work.
The gambling industry is growing rapidly, and with more people playing, it’s important to know how to protect yourself. Many tools can help you avoid problem gambling, and there are also several services available if you find yourself in trouble. The most important thing is to remember that no matter what happens: you are never alone!
