From real-time live casino games to VR poker tables, players unlock a world of modern and innovative gaming experiences—including best practices for responsible gaming. Today, casinos take safer gambling more seriously than ever—but players shouldn’t just rely on casino brand offerings! It’s equally important to understand responsible gambling and implement proper techniques in your own games.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need about responsible gaming, including seven actionable strategies you can implement today.
What is Responsible Gaming?
Responsible gambling (also known as safer gaming) is a set of rules and guidelines designed to make the online gambling industry safer for players. These guidelines are upheld by regulators, brands, vendors, and players to reduce financial harm, addictive behavior, and other negative impacts of gambling.
Typical responsible gambling tools include:
- Self-exclusions
- Time and deposit limits
- Reality checks
- Permanent account bans
- Credit and debit card restrictions
From slots websites to live casinos, all reputable brands put safe gambling first. If your chosen website doesn’t, it might be time to swap platforms. You’ll also find responsible gaming features at sweepstakes casinos, such as https://www.wsn.com/sweepstakes/. These new and popular gaming options are transforming the landscape for US players—so it’s great to see them prioritizing safety.
Why Must Players Consider Responsible Gaming?
It’s critical that every player researches and understands responsible gaming strategies—even if you’ve never experienced issues with gambling. You never know when you’ll need them, and having a basic understanding helps you stop any unhealthy patterns if you do notice them.
Practicing responsible gambling from the outset will enhance your enjoyment of online casinos—you’ll only gamble with disposable income that you can afford to lose (due to bankroll management), and you’ll have a more balanced relationship with casinos. Perfect for maintaining a healthy relationship with playing!
7 Key Strategies for Responsible Gaming
Let’s dive into the foundations of safer gambling you should know before creating an online casino account.
1. Choose Legitimate Casinos
The first step towards responsible gambling is exclusively playing at legitimate casinos and sportsbooks. Unfortunately, plenty of low-quality websites and bad actors don’t have the player’s best interests in mind. Knowing how to avoid these will result in a better and safer experience.
To find legitimate casinos, look for:
- Positive player reviews
- Reputable licenses
- Valid payment methods
- Well-known game providers
- Responsive customer service
2. Bankroll Management
Bankroll management is synonymous with responsible gambling. This practice involves managing your budget so you don’t overspend or experience unnecessary losses. For example, a managed bankroll includes only disposable income you can afford to spend (and potentially lose) while gambling. It should never include any money you need for your rent, bills, or other necessary expenses.
Bankroll management may also include setting win and loss limits. When you reach these limits, tap out and stop playing to avoid making emotional decisions or getting tempted to chase losses.
3. Understand Your Casino’s Tools
While most casinos offer responsible gambling tools and resources, options you have vary between them. Get to know what they offer and how to access it before you start playing. One casino might have a dedicated safer gambling FAQ page, while another may only offer self-exclusion when you contact the customer service team.
4. Understand External Resources
You should familiarize yourself with external responsible gambling organizations—even if you’ve never experienced symptoms of problem behavior.
The best ones for you will be those closest to your home. So, look for such organizations in your country. American players should turn to the National Council on Problem Gambling or the American Gaming Association. Meanwhile, Brits players should explore GamStop and GamCare. Other notable resources for English-speaking countries include Gambling Help Online, GambleAware, SMART Recovery, Gordon Moody, and the Responsible Gambling Council.
5. Limit Yourself
What’s your average session length? Do you even time your play? If you bury your head in the sand, it might be time to face the music.
Many players find it helpful to set timers while they wager. For example, you could only login on the weekends or set hour-long time limits to monitor your playing. Choose whatever works for you and your lifestyle. You should feel relaxed after your session, not more stressed out, tired, or numb. These are signs that you may need to step back for a while or even speak to a professional about your habits.
6. Stick to Sober Play
Beer and betting isn’t as much of a good idea as you think.
Gambling while under the influence can lead to poor decisions and spending too much. Drugs and alcohol impair your judgment—even if you’ve been practicing your skills while sober. Always think twice about logging in after a few drinks with your friends.
7. Gambling Isn’t a Job!
Tempted to make some extra money from slots or betting? Think again.
You should never use gambling as a job or even side hustle. While you can win money at online casinos, it should be an added bonus rather than a goal. Never rely on online casinos or sportsbooks as a source of income. Those who play to make money are more likely to develop unhealthy habits. Be mindful of your goals and take a step back if you find yourself stressing about your winnings.
Planning to a Safer Future
Safety plans and responsible play may not sound exciting or glamorous—but they’re necessary for modern users. Bookmark this page so you can come back and ensure you’re playing as responsibly as possible. Good luck!