How to play responsibly
Gambling is entertainment with a built-in cost, never a way to earn money. Responsible play means deciding the rules before you start — and noticing early when play stops following them.
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Principles of responsible play
Play with entertainment money only
Never with funds needed for rent, bills, savings or family expenses — and never with borrowed money.
Accept that the house edge is real
Over time every game of chance costs the player money. Losses are the price of the entertainment, not a debt to win back.
Decide limits in advance
Set deposit and time limits before the first bet, while the decision is calm and easy to keep.
Warning signs of problem gambling
Problem gambling develops gradually. These signals, recognised by addiction specialists, deserve attention — especially when several appear together.
- Playing with money intended for essential expenses, or borrowing to play
- Chasing losses — returning to win back what was lost
- Hiding the extent of play from family or friends
- Restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down
- Gambling to escape worries, stress or low mood
- Neglecting work, study or relationships because of play
Self-assessment: do I have a problem?
The questions below follow established screening tools used by counselling services. Answer honestly for the last twelve months; nothing is recorded or transmitted.
- Have you bet more than you could really afford to lose?
- Have you needed to play with larger amounts to feel the same excitement?
- Have you gone back another day to try to win back money you lost?
- Have you felt guilty about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?
- Has your gambling caused financial problems for you or your household?
Practical rules before you play
- Verify the operator is licensed in the official directory before registering.
- Set a deposit limit and a time limit immediately after creating the account.
- Decide in advance when the session ends — by time or by amount — and stop there, win or lose.
- Never play under the influence of alcohol, when upset, or to solve money problems.
- Keep track of total spending per month and review it honestly.
- Take regular breaks and keep gambling one pastime among many.
Talking to someone who gambles too much
Conversations about gambling work better without blame. Choose a calm moment, describe specific situations rather than character, and offer concrete next steps.
What helps
- Speaking about your own worry: "I am concerned because…"
- Suggesting one small step, such as calling the helpline together
- Protecting household finances calmly and openly
What does not help
- Ultimatums and accusations during an argument
- Paying off gambling debts without any agreement
- Expecting the problem to resolve itself