Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be a highly enjoyable way to win some money, but what happens when it goes beyond being fun? If you’re struggling with a gambling habit, we have some tips to help you deal with it

Gambling is a fun and popular pastime around the world and has been for centuries. When it comes to playing at online casinos, however, it’s important to remember the implications and risks that surround such activities as well. Here at Planet 7, player safety and welfare are our highest priorities, and we take pride in being able to offer services and advice to those who may need a bit of extra support.

This is why we’re giving you an in-depth overview of the risks involved with gambling, what happens when you go too far, what prevention measures are in place, and what you can do if you or someone you know could be suffering from a gambling disorder.

How to Gamble Safely and Responsibly

Gambling is a form of entertainment and relaxation. It should never be used as a way to 'get rich quick' or pay the rent.
Gambling is a personal choice, like most other things in life. Don't let anyone pressure you into gaming; make your own decisions.
Set limits before gambling and stick to them. Only gamble with what you can afford to lose, and think of any loss as the price of having a good time and taking a fun risk.
Keep children away from gambling. If you are a parent who chooses to gamble, be sure your children do not have access to your account if you gamble online.
Understand the self-exclusion options available. If you think you have a problem controlling your gambling, use the self-exclusion options available at the casino. You can 'self ban' yourself from a particular casino or a group of casinos by following the steps on their websites.
Contact the casino's customer support staff to cancel your online casino account if you have a gambling problem.

Know When to Stop

Medical experts define a gambling addiction (sometimes also referred to as a gambling disorder, compulsive gambling, or pathological gambling) as an impulse-control disorder. Gambling disorders affect about 2.6% of American adults and sit in line with mental health conditions like pyromania and kleptomania.

Problem gambling does not just apply to those playing in a land-based casino either – it can affect people of all ages and come from playing online games too, like video poker, slots, roulette, blackjack, scratch cards and anything else involving monetary transactions. People who partake in online console games have been known to suffer from compulsive behavior in recent years as well, particularly in places like the UK – where the illegal trading of virtual goods is now posing a major problem for the country’s Gambling Commission.

In terms of severity, a person with a gambling problem can vary from having quite a mild habit to exhibiting a complete lack of control. Though any indication of problem should be a cause for concern, there are signs to pay close attention to if you suspect you or anyone you know may be suffering from a gambling disorder.

How to Recognize a Gambling Problem

Many online casinos implement smart protocols that can recognize unusual player behavior online; however, this is not always enough to stop it completely. According to the American Psychiatric Association, those at risk may typically show signs of:

Restlessness and irritability when they are trying to stop gambling
Resorting to gambling as a way to combat or relieve stress
Lying about their gambling activity or the frequency of their gambling
Stealing, borrowing, or relying on others to fuel their gambling problem
Willingly putting their relationships, careers and monetary investments/savings at risk
Being unable to control urges to continue playing, even when they cannot afford it
Chasing losses

All of these things can have serious repercussions on a person’s finances, as well as a negative impact on relationships with friends and family; even spur on other gambling issues that can develop later on in life. If any of the above seems familiar to you or could apply to someone you know, it is worth undergoing a psychological evaluation in order to determine whether there could be an actual underlying issue. This can also help rule out any other disorders or mental health conditions the person may not know about.

The Causes

The causes of problem gambling are not very well defined, and research suggests that practically anyone can develop a problem. However, it is thought that a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors can all play a part in whether a person could be at risk. To gain a better understanding of how a person could be affected, take a look at what experts consider the key contributors:

People under 35 years are at a higher risk than older demographics, particularly in the modern age of smart phone technology and online sites, which makes it easy for people to access casino games. According to research conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), approximately 40% of adults with a gambling problem started before they were 17, with young people three times more likely to develop a problem than adults. But more interestingly, research indicates that the elderly may also be at risk.

Age

Studies have shown that males are more likely than females to develop a gambling problem. However, further research indicates that women, particularly those who play slots, may be at greater risk of developing a gambling problem much quicker than their counterparts; usually within a year from when they first started to gamble. Men, on the other hand, take an average of four years to develop an problem – which is common in males who frequently play games like poker or partake in sports betting.

Gender

People who are susceptible to gambling problems are also at much greater risk of developing or possessing traits that could be linked to other psychiatric disorders. These include bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety-related conditions, and depression. Of course, this isn’t the case for every compulsive gambler, but research shows that a person suffering with manic depression tends to have a much more vulnerable mind state, and therefore can easily become addicted to the feeling of jubilation and excitement that gambling can provide.

Pre-Existing Health Conditions

Many mental health disorders can be directly linked back to a person’s genetics. Studies have concluded that conditions such as depression and anxiety are hereditary in some patients. One particular study found that identical twins can both be susceptible to gambling problem, if one already suffers. Additionally, the kind of environmental setting a person has grown up in can also influence behavioral patterns as they progress through to adulthood. Analysts found that teenagers who were used to receiving scratch cards as gifts in their youth are more likely to show symptoms of an problem later on in life.

Family & Environment

Certain medications have been known to trigger impulsive behavior and problems – primarily drugs which contain dopamine receptor agonists. These medications are used to treat patients with Parkinson’s disease and conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Medications

What to Do if You Have a Problem and How to Get Treatment

Like most problems, there are ways to treat a gambling disorder. You’ll find helpful resources online and numerous places you can turn to should you suspect someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem. These include things like support groups, psychological therapy, important lifestyle changes, and revising your finances. In some instances, medication can also relieve some of the symptoms and urges associated with problem.

In addition to the above, you’ll also find independent organizations that provide support to people with gambling problems. These include www.gamblersanonymous.org and www.ncpgambling.org, both of which offer round-the-clock assistance, completely free of charge.

How You Can Help Others

Although there is no scientific or proven way to stop someone from developing a gambling problem, you can play your part by making sure the person in question is receiving all the necessary support. Don’t be afraid to talk to a professional or get treatment. Get a handle on the issue, then encourage others to do the same.

If you recognize the signs early on, you might just be able to prevent further problems down the line.

Planet 7 Casino (“the Operator”) and its related sites (“the Website”) offer you online gambling entertainment through our online gaming platform.

While most of our players gamble for entertainment purposes only, there are a small number of players who may lose control over their gaming. This is why we promote responsible gambling so players can continue to enjoy gambling safely and in moderation. Please read the following:

  • Online gambling should be treated as a form of entertainment and not as a substitute for a paying job
  • Always keep track of the time and money you spend gambling
  • Set a reasonable limit to the amount of money and time spent gambling
  • Prioritize your daily activities, like spending time with friends and family
  • Never 'chase losses' or use gambling to solve financial troubles
  • Don't borrow money, generate debts, or sell property in order to play

Discuss any gambling issues with your family or friends, or contact any of the support agencies below. If you find gambling is getting out of hand, there are many means of seeking help. The agencies below are available to help free of charge.

Resources for Responsible Gambling:

www.helpguide.com - Gambling disorders and problem gambling

https://www.scientificamerican.com - How the Brain Gets Addicted to Gambling

www.gamblersanonymous.org - 12-step program for people who have a gambling problem

www.ncpgambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling

www.gamblingtherapy.org - Global service offering free practical advice and emotional support for gambling problems