Simple rules
- Only gamble with money you're happy to spend on entertainment, like a cinema ticket.
- Set a money and time limit in advance, and don't change it mid-session.
- Don't chase losses.
- Don't gamble when stressed, tired or drinking.
- Never gamble with borrowed money.
Tools operators provide
Licensed operators must offer control tools, usually found in your account settings.
- Deposit limits â daily, weekly or monthly.
- Loss and stake limits.
- Reality checks â reminders of how long you've been playing.
- Time-out â a temporary account lock from one day to several weeks.
- Self-exclusion â a long-term block that can't be lifted early. Many countries also run national self-exclusion schemes covering all licensed operators.
Warning signs
- You play for longer and with more money than you planned.
- You try to win back losses.
- You hide your gambling from people close to you, or borrow money to play.
- You feel irritable when you try to cut down.
- Gambling gets in the way of work, study or relationships.
If you recognise yourself in two or more of these, take a break and talk to someone you trust. Turn on self-exclusion with your operator. It isn't weakness â it's a normal way to take back control.
Where to get help
Help is available confidentially. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional: gambling disorder is a recognised medical condition and it can be treated. Gamblers Anonymous groups meet in many cities and online, and many countries have free national gambling helplines. Install gambling blockers on your phone and computer, and ask your bank to block gambling transactions if it offers that option.