No matter whether you're a fan of casino sites, betting or multiplayer gaming, all sorts of online entertainment should ideally be consumed moderately. Responsibly. With no exceptions.
You'll find that every state allowing online gambling also has multiple systems designed to prevent gambling addiction. Alongside these systems, there are also external helplines and websites to rely on.
Depending on which state in the United States you're located in, you will have options ranging from helplines, anonymous groups, self exclusion programs and more. A lot of them are government-run, with the sole aim of promoting responsible gambling.
What Does It Mean to Have a Gambling Problem?
This varies a lot from one person to the next, but there are a few common reasons why gambling could turn into a problem. The term for this is simply ‘problem gambling', and implies that you're no longer just playing for fun, but rather because you can't stop.
Chasing losses is one of the major issues. It could for instance mean that you've spent a lot of real money playing slots, but ended on a losing streak. To make up for the losses, you continue playing to try and win the money back. This could in turn lead to even more losses. Gambling should never replace having a job that pays the bills and puts food on the table. It's not a way to make money, it's entertainment.
Feeling as if you have no choice but to keep playing to make money, is a big red flag for problem gambling, and that's when you should consider getting help before it's too late.
Casino Frog on Gambling Responsibly
The experts at Casinofrog.com all have a lot of experience with online gambling. They agree that games should always be viewed as just that – games. Know that gambling addiction is real for many people around the world, and it's hard to know if it will affect you or not. We recommend setting limits for yourself, and never being hesitant about seeking help if needed.
While it's difficult to express opinions on important matters like problem gambling, we want to offer general advice for those who need a push in the right direction. Online casino sites should never be used as a way of making money or as investment opportunities. Even after reading countless of guides on how to become an expert at a certain casino game, there is no guarantee that you'll always make more money than you spend playing.
Play for the rush, for the excitement, but not as an alternative to a regular paying job.
Decide on a Budget Before You Play
Setting a budget for your gambling session is something we definitely recommend. Always decide on an amount that you can actually afford to lose. That way, you won't have anything to worry about while you're playing, making the experience more enjoyable at the same time.
Whichever amount you decide on, make sure that you stick to it no matter what. There are tools that help you do this, and often you'll be able to contact the casino support to set hard limits on your gambling at that specific casino site.
When playing, you'll often win some, lose some. Don't take losses too hard, and never chase them to try and win back the money. Once you've run out of your budget, go about your day and stop gambling until next time. The budget you've set should not be a part of the budget used for bills and food, but solely for entertainment such as going out, games, and gambling. This way, even if you lose, you've only lost your gambling money.
Problem Gambling Resources in the United States
Depending on which state you live in, you'll have access to different resources. If you or anyone you know is struggling with problem gambling, there's never any shame in asking for help and getting a push in the right direction. It's easier to get through if you don't have to do it on your own. The resources provided below are all completely free. Stay safe, and gamble responsibly.