Gambling at an online casino, when done in moderation, can be a fun recreational activity. However, on those rare occasions when things get out of control and someone is overcome with a gambling addiction, there are several organizations available to help that person quit gambling and overcome this addiction.
In fact, online casinos themselves are willing to provide assistance and direction in this regard. All sites install systems to help you limit your gambling output. And if those measures aren’t successful, they also offer direct links to organizations set up to help someone kick a gambling addiction.
Gambling Safety Measures
Online casino sites in the USA will enable players to take such gambling safety measures as setting deposit limits, betting limits and time limits for playing inside the casino. Players can also self-suspend participation by engaging in a cool-off period from online casino play of a minimum of 72 hours.
If those measures aren’t getting the job done, it’s also possible through the state gambling regulator to have yourself put into a self-exclusion program (New Jersey). By doing so, you’ll be prohibited from participating in any form of legal, regulated online gambling for a period of between 1-5 years.
Problem Gambling Help
Should the problem persist, there are third-party gambling addiction experts who can be contacted in order to get the gambling addict professional help. For instance, help is available by calling the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700. They offer a 24-hour national confidential helpline. Online chat is accessible at 1800gamblerchat.org and you can text them at 800GAM. They also offer access to advice on how to gamble responsibly at responsibleplay.org.
Gamblers anonymous is another option to get help. They can be reached at 855-2-Call GA, or online at www.gamblersanonymous.org). Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling. There are no dues or fees for Gamblers Anonymous membership.
Recognizing the Signs of Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, can be challenging to recognize until it has reached a critical point. Here are some common signs that may indicate a person is suffering from a gambling addiction:
- Preoccupation with Gambling: Constantly thinking about past gambling experiences, anticipating the next opportunity to gamble, or thinking of ways to get money to gamble.
- Inability to Stop or Control Gambling: Repeated unsuccessful efforts to stop, control, or cut back on gambling.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
- Chasing Losses: After losing money gambling, often returning another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses).
- Lying to Conceal Gambling Activity: Lying to family members, therapists, or others to hide the extent of involvement with gambling.
- Jeopardizing or Losing Significant Relationships or Opportunities: Gambling despite risking or losing a relationship, job, or other significant opportunity.
- Relying on Others for Financial Bailouts: Depending on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.
- Gambling with Increasing Amounts: Needing to bet larger amounts of money in order to feel excitement.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Neglecting personal or family responsibilities because of gambling.
- Financial Instability: Experiencing financial problems as a direct consequence of gambling, such as large debts or an inability to pay bills.
- Using Gambling as an Escape: Using gambling as a way to escape from problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
It’s important to note that exhibiting one or two of these behaviors does not necessarily indicate a gambling addiction; however, if someone is showing multiple signs or if their gambling habits are interfering with their daily life, it might be time to seek professional help.
Get Help Now!
Self-Exclusion Program (New Jersey):
- New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement: Self-Exclusion Program
Problem Gambling Help:
- National Council on Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24-hour confidential helpline)
- Online Chat: 1800gamblerchat.org
- Text: 800GAM
- Responsible Gambling Advice: responsibleplay.org
Gamblers Anonymous:
- Hotline: 855-2-CALL GA (855-222-5542)
- Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org
Play responsiby!