Keep It a Game

We write about slots, cards and tables because they can be a lot of fun. For most adults they stay that way: a bit of entertainment with a price tag, like a night at the cinema. For some people, though, play slowly turns into something that costs far more than money. This page is about keeping it a game, and about what to do if it has stopped being one.

Strictly 18+

Gambling in any form is for adults aged 18 or over, or older where local law says so. If young people use your phone, tablet or computer, log out of gaming apps, lock them behind a passcode and never leave payment details saved where someone else could use them.

Remember what you are paying for

Every casino game, poker room and betting market is designed so that the operator keeps a share over time. Winning sessions happen, but there is no feature, system or lucky hour that turns play into income. When you see the money you bring as the cost of an evening's entertainment, everything that comes back is a pleasant extra and nothing that goes is a disaster.

Also check that gambling is allowed where you live. Online casinos and betting are prohibited or tightly limited in many countries and regions.

Set the limits before the fun starts

• A money limit. Decide what tonight may cost and do not top up once it is gone.
• A time limit. Set a timer or alarm. Fast games make an hour feel like ten minutes.
• Use the tools on offer. Most licensed operators provide deposit limits, loss limits, session reminders, time-outs and self-exclusion. Switch them on while you feel calm, not in the middle of a session.
• Keep it separate. Never use money meant for rent, bills, food or debts, and never borrow to play.
• Clear head only. Alcohol, tiredness, stress or a low mood make limits harder to keep.

Signs that play is turning into a problem

Any one of these is worth taking seriously:

• spending more money or time than you meant to, again and again;
• chasing losses by raising stakes or playing longer to win money back;
• hiding gambling from family or friends, or feeling uneasy about it;
• borrowing, selling things or skipping payments to keep playing;
• feeling restless, irritable or low when you are not playing;
• gambling to escape worries rather than for fun;
• work, study, sleep or relationships suffering because of play.

Where to find help

If some of these sound familiar, you are not alone, and it is never too early to act. Many countries have free, confidential gambling support services, including telephone helplines, online chat and counselling, and many also offer national self-exclusion schemes that block access to licensed gambling sites. A search for gambling support in your country, or a conversation with your doctor, is a good first step. Licensed operators must also show where to get help, usually on their responsible gambling page.

If you are worried about someone else, a calm, non-judgemental conversation helps more than an argument. Many support services also advise family members and friends.

If you ever feel unsafe or think about harming yourself, contact your local emergency services straight away.

Our part

We do not publish win promises, betting systems or invented figures, and every article reminds readers about age, limits and local law. If you think one of our pages falls short of that, tell us through Ring the Bell. A good first read for newcomers is Low Stakes, High Smiles.