Be Aware of the Risks
Gambling is a form of entertainment that is appreciated by many. However, for some, the negative consequences of excessive gambling is a reality. It is important to be aware of the risks involved, and to keep your gambling at a suitable level where it is just fun entertainment. Getting informed is a great first step to set you up for a safe and responsible gaming experience.
What it means to play within safe limits varies from person to person. It is not only the time and money you have to spare that might differ, but people also differ in how susceptible they are to the potential risks related to gambling. Safe and positive play means an experience where you are in control, at a level that is suited to you. It also means that it is free from harm, negative consequences or unpleasant emotions, both in the short and long term.
A Safe Experience
Play for fun and not to make money
Prepare for the losses and stay within your affordable limits
Only play when you’re in a good mood
Only play when alert and sober
Get to know your own gambling
Get informed
Use tools and ask for help when needed
Know when to stop
Budgeting tips
Developing a budget is a great way to take control of your finances in everyday life. This will give you a better understanding of where your money is going and a clear picture of how much you actually spend on gambling.
With a budget, it will be easier to set a clear figure when it comes to determining how much money you can and want to dedicate to your gambling account each month.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to budgeting:
- Count on losing – you might win, you might lose, but all the money you deposit and stake should always be money that you can comfortably afford to lose and still stay within your budget.
- Make sure other important expenses are accounted for before touching your gambling money. A recommendation is to count it to the “entertainment” category of your general budget.
- Make sure your budget is sustainable in the long-term and not just working short-term.
- Make sure your budget is updated to your current situation. If your income or expenses are changing – your gambling budget might need to be adjusted.
- Think about how to treat potential wins. Should you be lucky and win, do you want to set aside some of it for other treats? If so, it is a good idea to withdraw the money and remove it from your gambling budget, otherwise, it might be gone before you get to enjoy it.
- Stick to your budget!
- Use our deposit limits to help you do so. Make sure the amounts you set for your limit match your gambling budget as the tool won’t work as intended otherwise.
Risk factors
Getting caught up in a negative gambling pattern that might lead to gambling problems could potentially happen to anyone. However, certain circumstances could put you at an increased risk, or make you extra susceptible to the risks of gambling.
Young age: Although the legal gambling age is 19, there are certain aspects of how the young brain is wired, for example when it comes to risk taking and the brain’s reward system, that make people extra susceptible to the risks of gambling even in their early to mid 20s. Gambling at a young age may increase the risks of developing a problem later in life.
If you are young, it could be worth taking the extra time to get properly informed, and possibly take some precautions early to avoid the risk of overdoing it.
History of gambling problems: Everyone’s gambling journey is unique, and so are journeys of problem gambling. Some people manage to gamble responsibly after experiencing problematic periods, while others need complete abstinence not to fall back into old patterns. Having a history of gambling problems will put you at higher risk of experiencing harm again, regardless of how much time that has passed.
If you are thinking about playing again after a break, make sure this decision is well considered and not taken on a whim. It is also important to create a safety net for yourself, such as a budget and limits. And remember that the self-exclusion function is always available should you need another break.
Going through a crisis or struggling with life changes: Gambling can feel like a welcomed distraction if your day-to-day life is overwhelming and you want a temporary escape from the challenges you’re facing. However, relying on gambling as a coping mechanism could lead to further difficulties. Additionally, if your usual support system is out of play, it could make you more vulnerable to the risks of gambling.
If you are noticing that gambling is becoming more important to you at a difficult time, it is worth taking some time to think about the motives behind your gambling and the role you want gambling to play in your life.
Strained financial situation: Whatever budget you are on, it is important to only play for money you can afford to lose. At times when you are stretching your budget, it might be tempting to fantasize about a big win.
Remember that gambling is never a solution to financial problems. If there is very little money left after your necessary expenses are paid, it might be best to stay away from gambling at this time.
