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Written on Sunday 5th of March 2006
Responsible Gambling
Gambling is an age old tradition that has been in the blood of mankind for centuries. Its ability to create a thrill through the feeling of an adrenalin rush makes it a highly addictive pastime. This can be easily controlled by most people, who see gambling more as a hobby than a way of generating an income. However there is an element of people out there (you might be one of them) who find it difficult to control their gambling habits.
It has been said that the facility of gambling online only contributes to this problem. What seems like a constant barrage of flashing banners and the ability to open betting accounts in minutes makes gambling online overly enticing.
The truth of the matter is love it of loave it, online gambling is here to stay and is only going to get bigger. Blaming the sudden uptake in internet gambling on problems you maybe experiencing is not going to solve anything.
Betastic has put together a guide for responsible gambling that is well worth using whether you're an experienced gambler or an absolute beginner. We hope by following these simple steps you will hopefully keep your gambling hobby under control:
- Set Limits - It may sound a bit obvious, but never play with money you can't afford to lose. This is one of the most common reasons to why people get into financial difficulties with gambling. If you haven't got the money don't play, simple as that.
- Don't chase your losses - We never expect to lose when we gamble, but it invariably happens. It is common to feel that it is possible to recoup losses even if it means going well over your budget to do so. Stop! Not a good idea, no matter how quickly you may have lost you should never chase losses it only leads to even more loss.
- Don't chase your wins - This may seem a bit odd, but gamblers who are on a winning run very often up their stake when winning. You are much better off sticking to what you are doing and remembering the limits of your budget.
- Don't drink and gamble - Often the mistake after going out for a few beers is to come home and have a few games on the net before crashing out. We are all aware of the way alcohol affects our decision making, just don't do it.
- Use Site restrictions - Many of the more reputable gambling sites offer restrictions on daily betting amounts and Self-exclusion periods. They are there to prevent you from getting into debt. Our advise is use them.
- Get some rest - Hours can seem like minutes when you are engrossed in an online gambling game. Remember to get plenty of sleep, otherwise you will become exhausted and rapidly loose concentration.
- Seek advice - If you do feel you might have a problem, don't bottle it up, speak to someone. GAMCARE is an organisation set up to provide help for gamblers. You can seek confidential advice by calling them on 0845 6000 133 or check out their website www.gamcare.org.uk