Responsible gambling is just as important as the game itself. Nowadays, almost all online casinos take precautions to prevent their players from developing gambling problems. But in many cases it is not enough for the casino to set certain rules, you also have to know when to stop and when to continue.
Gambling addiction is relatively common, but to control it you have to take some steps and focus on playing and having fun. Because, like everything in life, when you start struggling to do something, something isn’t working as it should.
Casino Measurements Canada
The measures adopted by casinos are varied so that users take responsibility for their money and their mental health. Here are some of them:
1) Loss limit.
It’s very useful for stopping gambling when you’ve already lost too much on a bad day. Obviously, we always want to make up for what we lost, but sometimes we have to stop and try another day.
With this tool, you can set a time limit and you can’t exceed it. There are also limits set by the casinos themselves.
2) Deposit Limit
As in the previous case, sometimes both the casino and yourself can set a deposit limit. So, even if you want to play more, if you’ve already reached your limit, you’ll have to wait a little longer to keep playing.
3) Playtime control
Many casinos in Canada implement a control or indicator of the amount of time you play. This way, you can see the game clock and decide how many hours you want to play; or when you need to stop because you’ve been there too long.
4) Self-exclusion.
It’s a very interesting tool and works very well. It involves telling the casino that you want to take an extended break. This way, you will be excluded from the casino for a certain time, which can be set by the casino and by you.
After this holiday and when everything is under control, you will be able to play again without problems and with your head.
Steps you can take
Of course, while we’ve looked at some of them, they’re usually measures that casinos recommend or enforce. But it’s also important for you to set some ground rules.
1) Limits
There should always be limits, both to play and to winning or losing. You have to know how to stop to continue playing afterwards.
2) Play and other activities
You have to do more than just play; alternate play with other activities. Work, go out with your friends, your family… As long as play isn’t the main focus of your life, you’ll be fine.
3) It’s not your only source of income
This is a common problem, to think that you can live with the game in peace. But it is not like that, you can always play for pleasure and win some extra money. But don’t just rely on that, because if not, that’s where the problems arise.
4) Psychological problems
If you have problems in your life, have been drinking or using drugs, or are not feeling well emotionally, it is best to leave the game for another time.
As we say, the game is meant to have fun, so never use it as an escape. You have to have a clear head to win.
5) Help
If you think you need help or just want to know more about the possible problems caused by gambling, you can always contact one of these associations that will help you along the way.
You can also talk to them if you think someone you know has a problem to see how they can act to offer their help.
Gamblers Anonymous: A group of current and former gamblers who share their experiences and strengths in relation to gambling addiction.
FEJAR: The Canadian Federation of Rehabilitated Players helps prevent and treat addictions.
Friendly screens: for both children and adults, it encourages responsible use of the Internet on a daily basis.