Today we are surrounded by tempting opportunities one click away from us, while easy access and endless entertainment options can affect people with addiction. Thankfully, safe gambling standards evolve, and players can seek help when in need. Stay with us to learn about online responsible gambling in the US and check the most important organizations from the field.
Responsible Gaming Overview
Responsible gaming regulations are followed strictly in the US. An operator wouldn’t be eligible for a license without promoting safer gambling. Casino and betting laws vary from state to state, but the player protection standards have much in common. Overall, there is a good network of responsible gambling organizations that collaborate with operators and support players trying to change their gaming habits.
Even if operators are expected to comply with local gaming regulations, online safety starts with you. You must pick a licensed casino site or betting platform to ensure your gaming session will be worry-free.
Safe online gambling rules require operators to collaborate with organizations that support the cause. In addition, players should have easy access to tools such as self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, time tracking, and more. Numerous responsible gaming institutions operate in the US – Gamblers Anonymous and the National Council on Problem Gambling are the most prominent. Below, we will cover them and guide you on recognizing the symptoms of problem gambling.
Tips on Maintaining a Healthy Gambling Habit
Responsible gambling practices are essential for players to avoid overspending and developing an addiction. Thankfully, the online gambling market in the US offers enough support tools to help you get back on the right track. For example, you can set a reality check alert – a pop-up will appear on your screen, reminding you to take a break.
Using safe gambling tools can help players with addiction or prevent them from developing one. Depending on the level of the problem, you may need to sign-up for a self-exclusion program or apply several techniques to minimize the risk. Here, you can check the most common among them:
- Manage budget effectively ā It’s best to set a budget and not go over it. Evaluate what kind of money you can spend and avoid using credit cards.
- Avoid spending considerable amounts of time ā Make sure you don’t steal from your working or family time. Take advantage of time-tracking tools available on many US gaming platforms.
- Consider self-exclusion options ā When you notice symptoms of problem gambling, visit your preferred operator’s responsible gaming page. Explore the self-exclusion schemes and register for a minimum of six months.
- Avoid situations with high risk ā For example, you can opt for casino games with low maximum bets instead of playing at high-roller tables.
- Find alternative hobbies ā Try to spend more time doing pleasant activities – go for a walk, spend time with your family and friends, or try a new hobby.
- Start a conversation ā Be open about your concerns to your close ones. If you are starting your journey to safe gambling, choose a friend and tell them about it.
If you are consistent, these simple ways can make a change in your gaming habits. Yet, if you feel things are out of your control, you should seek professional help. Whether you visit land-based casinos too frequently or you want to practice responsible online gambling, there are dozens of ways organizations can support you and your family through the healing process.
Gambling Addiction Symptoms & Identifiers
There is a thin line between playing for fun and developing an addiction. Problem gambling may affect anyone, so you should be careful if you notice unusual behavior in yourself or a loved one. Symptoms usually start with anxiety, alienation, trouble sleeping, and sudden mood swings, but they don’t end there.
If the problem is not faced, it may deepen and even lead to financial difficulties. Playing at casinos that don’t support responsible gaming in the US also hides potential threats. Obsessing over games or betting can alienate you from your family and cause problems at work. Other complications may concern problem gamblers, such as:
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities.
- Making-up lies about your gambling urges and practices.
- Amassing significant debts due to gambling spending.
- Using gambling as an escape from real-life problems and situations.
- Losing or threatening to lose a job, a loved one, or a family member or support.
- Prioritizing gambling above all else in your personal and professional life.
- Feeling depressed, saddened, or angry when not gambling.
Above, we mentioned only several of the many behavioral examples that US players with a gambling addiction may experience. Remember that you don’t need to have all of the symptoms to state that you have a problem. Some, for example, accumulating debt, are more serious than others. In case of doubt about where you stand, you can complete the Gamblers Anonymous 20-question quiz.
Problem Gambling – Getting Help
No matter where you live, you can get support from any location in the US. Institutions such as the National Council on Problem Gambling dispose of employees in all 50 states. They also have a 24/7/365 helpline, where you can talk to a professional for free. Organizations like Gamblers Anonymous also have meetings all over the United States, so you can easily find a group to help you gamble responsibly.
You can also get help online at Gambling Therapy’s website. It’s a global network that offers multilingual support to players that need to improve their safe gambling habits. We will provide more information about the opportunities in the following paragraphs.
National Council on Problem Gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling stimulates stakeholders to apply a comprehensive responsible gambling policy and programs to those fighting addiction. It operates a national helpline and aims to spread awareness among players and operators from the US iGaming market.
Name of Organization | National Council on Problem Gambling |
---|---|
Address | 730 11th St, NW, Ste 601 Washington, DC 20001, USA |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 202-547-9204 |
[email protected] | |
Website | www.ncpgambling.org |
Core Tasks | Development of programs for those affected by problem gambling |
Support Groups | No |
Meetings | Yes |
The institution has advocated for problem gamblers and their families since 1972. Besides operating the national hotline and collaborating with gambling operators, the Council organizes the US National Problem Gambling Awareness Month every March. Its structure also provides training services and education resources to federal, state, tribal, and international governments.
Gamblers Anonymous
Founded in 1957, Gamblers Anonymous is America’s most famous US responsible gaming network. It has revolutionized the sector by introducing its “20 Questions” guide, which determines whether a player is a compulsive gambler or not.
Name of Organization | Gamblers Anonymous |
---|---|
Address | 1306 Monte Vista Avenue, Suite 5 Upland, CA 91786, USA |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 909-931-9056 |
[email protected] | |
Website | www.gamblersanonymous.org |
Core Tasks | Players help each other solve the problems of compulsive gambling |
Support Groups | Yes |
Meetings | Yes |
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12-step recovery program, which is 100% free. One of the principles it follows is compulsive gamblers not going near or entering gaming venues. It also offers a support network for families and friends, Gam-Anon, which helps those affected by gambling by providing emotional support and money-management advice.
Gam-Anon
Gam-Anon is a support community for families and friends affected by their close one’s compulsive gambling. The organization spreads awareness about addiction’s emotional and financial consequences and promotes safe gambling in the US. A 12-step program is also available for those affected by the gaming habits of another.
Name of Organization | Gam-Anon |
---|---|
Address | PO Box 307, Massapequa Park, NY 11762, USA |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 718-352-1671 |
[email protected] | |
Website | www.gam-anon.org |
Core Tasks | Provides information for the public about problem gambling |
Support Groups | Yes |
Meetings | Yes |
The goal of Gam-Anon is to help emotionally those impacted by someone else’s gambling problem. There are no fees for participating in a program – members only contribute what they can to help the organization cover expenses. You can participate in a meeting in a land-based establishment or join one virtually.
International Center for Responsible Gaming
The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) was founded in 1996 and has been an important figure in providing help to those affected by gambling and investing in scientific research in the field.
Name of Organization | International Center for Responsible Gambling |
---|---|
Address | 900 Cummings Center, Suite 219-UBeverly, MA 01915, USA |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 978-338-6610 |
[email protected] | |
Website | www.icrg.org |
Core Tasks | Explores gambling disorder and safe gaming |
Support Groups | No |
Meetings | Yes |
The way the ICRG stimulates US players to gamble responsibly is through guides targeting different audiences. You can download Gambling and Health guidebooks and other resources on their website for free. The ICRG believes everyone, including operators, public leaders, government officials, and non-profit organizations, should collaborate to establish a safe gaming environment.
Indeed, the service of the International Center for Responsible Gaming is significant. The institution organizes the annual ICRG Scientific Achievement Award, granted to those with outstanding contributions to research on gambling disorders and responsible gambling in the US.
1-800-GAMBLER
1-800-GAMBLER is the national problem gambling helpline in the US. It is managed by the National Council on Problem Gambling and is accessible 24/7. In case of doubt, don’t hesitate to contact it – anything you share with an operator on the helpline is 100% confidential.
Name of Organization | 1-800-Gambler |
---|---|
Address | Online Platform |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 800-426-2537 (WV) 304-344-2883 (Rest) |
[email protected] | |
Website | www.1800gambler.net |
Core Tasks | Providing counseling, treatment, and resources for battling gambling addiction |
Support Groups | Yes |
Meetings | Yes |
The helpline contributes to the safe online gambling cause by providing text and chat support in all 50 states. The features are developed so that users can easily access the services while playing online or on the go. To speak with a safe gambling representative, find the 1-800-GAMBLER contact number, and use it to call or text.
GamTalk
One of the most popular responsible online gambling tools is GamTalk, where players can access chat rooms and share their experiences with other community members. It is a safe space to share everything regarding your recovery journey.
Name of Organization | Gamtalk |
---|---|
Address | Online Platform |
Tel. Number/Hotline | N/A |
N/A | |
Website | www.gamtalk.org |
Core Tasks | People with gambling issues share experiences and ideas |
Support Groups | No |
Meetings | No |
The GamTalk website is safe and has two chat rooms. The Recovery Focus room is always open to share your thoughts, struggles, or progress toward your goal. The other chat room is for scheduled sessions and is available on Tuesdays (6-8 pm PST). A responsible gambling representative moderates it while its content remains private. To access any of these chat rooms in the US, you need to register – it’s free.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Even if it’s not included in every safe gaming policy, a reference to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can save lives. The Lifeline helpline provides free support to people experiencing a suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Name of Organization | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline |
---|---|
Address | 50 Broadway, New York City 10004, USA |
Tel. Number/Hotline | 988 |
N/A | |
Website | www.988lifeline.org |
Core Tasks | Support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress |
Support Groups | No |
Meetings | No |
Sometimes, responsible gambling support is not enough. In case you need to talk to someone or you know someone struggling with gaming addiction, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is open 24/7. The organization is based in the United States and is committed to preventing suicide, spreading awareness, and empowering individuals to help others abandon self-harming thoughts.
State Resources for Safe Online Gambling
In each US state, safe gaming organizations and local health organizations collaborate to help problem gamblers. Depending on your residency, you can access info resources, therapy, support groups, and online meetings. Sometimes, states fund these recovery programs, and players can sign-up for free. Below, you can find more info on each state’s local council on responsible gaming and their services.
State Resources for Safe Online Gambling
State | Organization | Phone Number |
---|---|---|
Alabama | Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling www.alccg.org | 334-277-5100 |
Arizona | Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling www.azccg.org | 800-777-7207 |
Arizona Office of Problem Gambling https://problemgambling.az.gov | 602-542-8998 | |
Arkansas | Arkansas Problem Gambling Council www.arpgcouncil.org | 501-403-2321 |
Arkansas Department of Health and Social Service https://www.healthyarkansas.com | 800-462-0599 | |
California Dept. of Public Health: Office of Problem Gambling https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPG/Pages/opg-landing.aspx | 916-558-1784 | |
Colorado | Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado www.problemgamblingcoalitioncolorado.org | 303-662-0772 |
Colorado Gaming Association https://coloradogaming.com/responsible-gaming | 800-522-4700 | |
Connecticut | Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling www.ccpg.org | 959-282-2671 |
Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services https://portal.ct.gov/DMHAS | 860-418-7000 | |
Delaware | Delaware Council on Problem Gambling https://www.DEProblemGambling.org | 888-850-8888 |
Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health https://www.dhss.delaware.gov | 302-255-9399 | |
District of Columbia | Department of Human Services https://dhs.dc.gov | 202-727-5355 |
Florida | Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling www.gamblinghelp.org | 888-236-4848 |
Georgia | The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities https://dbhdd.georgia.gov | 404-657-2252 |
Georgia Council on Problem Gambling https://www.georgiagamblinghelp.org | 800-715-4225 | |
Illinois | Illinois Council on Problem Gambling www.icpg.info | 217-652-9611 |
Illinois Department of Human Services https://www.dhs.state.il.us | 800-843-6154 | |
Illinois Gaming Board https://www.igb.illinois.gov | 877-968-7848 | |
Indiana | Indiana Council on Problem Gambling www.indianaproblemgambling.org | 317-632-1364 |
Indiana Family and Social Services Administration https://www.in.gov/fssa/dmha/addiction-services/problem-gambling/ | 800-994-8448 | |
Indiana Problem Gambling Awareness Program https://ipgap.indiana.edu | 800-994-8448 | |
Iowa | Iowa Gambling Treatment Program https://yourlifeiowa.org/gambling | 855-581-8111 |
Kansas | Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling www.ksproblemgambling.org | 785-224-3503 |
Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission https://www.krgc.ks.gov/index.php/responsible-gambling | 785-296-5800 | |
Kentucky | Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling www.kycpg.org | 502-223-1823 |
Louisiana | Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling www.helpforgambling.org | 318-227-0883 |
Louisiana Office of Behavioral Health? https://ldh.la.gov/page/1545 | 225-342-9500 | |
Louisiana Gaming Control Board? https://lgcb.dps.louisiana.gov/problem.html | 877-770-7867 | |
Maine | Maine Council on Problem Gambling www.maineproblemgambling.org | 866-811-5695 |
Office of Substance Abuse Problem Gambling? https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/population-health/prevention/gambling/ | N/A | |
Maryland | Maryland Council on Problem Gambling marylandproblemgambling.org | 800-426-2537 |
Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling? https://www.mdproblemgambling.com | 667-214-2120 | |
Maryland Department of Health? https://health.maryland.gov | 877-463-3464 | |
The Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling https://www.mdgamblinghelp.org | N/A | |
Massachusetts | Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health www.macgh.org | 617-426-4554 |
Massachusetts Office of Problem Gambling Services? https://www.mass.gov/orgs/office-of-problem-gambling-services | 617-624-5012 | |
GameSense? https://gamesensema.com | 617-979-8400 | |
The MA Problem Gambling Helpline https://gamblinghelplinema.org | 800-327-5050 | |
Michigan | Michigan Association on Problem Gambling https://www.michapg.com | 517-672-6904 |
Minnesota | Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling https://www.mnapg.org | 612-424-8595 |
Minnesota Department of Human Services https://getgamblinghelp.com | 800-333-4673 | |
Mississippi | Mississippi Council on Problem & Compulsive Gaming www.msgambler.org | 601-853-8351 |
Missouri | Missouri Department of Mental Health https://dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health/treatment-services/specialized-programs/gambling | 888-238-7633 |
Montana | Montana Council on Problem Gambling www.mtproblemgambling.org | 888-900-9979 |
Montana Department of Health and Human Services https://dphhs.mt.gov | 406-444-2511 | |
Nebraska | Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling www.NEproblemgambling.org | 833-238-6837 |
Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov | 833-238-6837 | |
Nevada | Nevada Council on Problem Gambling www.nevadacouncil.org | 702-369-9740 |
New Hampshire | New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services https://www.dhhs.nh.gov | 844-275-3447 |
New Hampshire Council on Problem Gambling https://nhproblemgambling.org | 603-724-1605 | |
New Jersey | Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey https://800gambler.org | 609-588-5515 |
New Mexico | New Mexico Council on Problem Gambling councilonproblemgambling.com | 800-572-1142 |
Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico www.rganm.org | 888-696-2440 | |
New York | New York Council on Problem Gambling www.nyproblemgambling.org | 518-867-4084 |
Know the Odds https://knowtheodds.org | N/A | |
North Carolina | North Carolina Council on Problem Gambling www.nccouncilpg.org | 336-681-8516 |
North Carolina Division of Mental Health https://www.ncdhhs.gov | 877-718-5543 | |
North Dakota | Gambler ND https://www.gamblernd.com/ | 877-702-7848 |
Ohio | The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio https://www.pgnohio.org | 614-750-9899 |
Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline GamblingHelpOhio.org | 800-589-9966 | |
Oklahoma | Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming www.oapgg.org | 405-801-3329 |
Oregon | Oregon Council on Problem Gambling www.oregoncpg.com | 971-361-9333 |
Oregon Problem Gambling Resource https://www.opgr.org/ | 877-695-4648 | |
Pennsylvania | Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania https://www.pacouncil.com | 215-643-4542 |
Rhode Island | Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling www.RICPG.com | 401-354-2877 |
Problem Gambling Services of RI https://www.pgsri.org | 401-383-0301 | |
Problem Gambling Services https://www.problemgamblingservices.com | 401-499-2472 | |
South Carolina | South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services https://www.daodas.sc.gov | 803-896-5555 |
South Dakota | South Dakota Department of Social Services https://dss.sd.gov | 605-773-3165 |
Tennessee | Tennessee Association of Alcohol, Drug and other Addiction Services https://www.taadas.org | 800-889-9789 |
Virginia | Virginia Council on Problem Gambling vcpg.net | 888-532-3500 |
Washington | Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling www.evergreencpg.org | 800-547-6133 |
Washington State Health Care Authority https://www.hca.wa.gov | 844-461-4436 | |
West Virginia | Help4WV https://www.help4wv.com/ | 844-435-7498 |
The Problem Gamblers Help Network of West Virginia https://www.1800gambler.net/ | 800-426-2537 | |
Wisconsin | Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov | 800-426-2535 |
Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov | 608-266-1865 | |
Wyoming | Wyoming Council on Problem Gambling www.wyomingcpg.org | 307-278-0766 |
The supporters of safe gambling in the US are easily accessible in-person, via telephone, or online. If you need help, always look for the organization closest to you, whether it’s gamblers-focused or a general health agency. Don’t hesitate to reach out, especially when you lose track of how to gamble safely anymore.
Responsible Gambling Online & Offline
Often, players don’t realize the seriousness of their gambling problem. The first step toward recovery is being honest with yourself. Luckily, online safe gambling tools are numerous, and you can benefit from most of them free of charge. For instance, you can set a time limit and restrict long gaming sessions to prevent losing large amounts of money. Self-exclusion and gambling blockers can also help you avoid betting online.
In general, land-based casinos must be avoided. As we briefly mentioned, according to the Gamblers Anonymous 12-step program, recovery players shouldn’t even pass close to brick-and-mortar gaming venues. In the following lines, we will get into detail on how to tell whether someone has a gambling addiction and what measures you can take to help them or yourself.
Online Gambling – Measures and Precautions
All legal online casinos must promote responsible gambling in the US. To help players overcome their addiction, they should provide tools like time trackers, deposit limits, and self-exclusion schemes. Each platform should include a responsible gambling disclaimer and transparent T&C so that users know what they sign-up for. Here, you can check the most effective instruments available online:
- Self-Exclusion ā You can block your access to one or more gambling platforms for a pre-defined period by voluntarily signing up for a self-exclusion program.
- Deposit limitations ā Limiting the amounts you can transfer to your account is an effective way to stick to your budget.
- Time management ā You can set a time alert to remind you to take a break and gamble responsibly.
- Spending or loss limits ā Some platforms will also allow you to limit your spending, which is handy for players that want to minimize their losses.
- Contact customer support ā Contact a staff member if you feel like playing is your only getaway or if you experience other symptoms of gambling addiction.
- Get in touch with a responsible gambling partner ā Getting professional support is essential to your journey to safe gambling. Check the local organization’s meetings or groups and sign-up for one of them.
Depending on your gaming habits, you will need different treatments. In some cases, limiting your online spending may be enough, while in others, a recovery program may be the only solution. Therefore, there is no universal method that works for everyone, which is why seeking professional support is always recommended. Furthermore, keep in mind that having a solid ranking criteria when choosing a gambling site can be beneficial even when avoiding various gambling issues.
Responsible Gambling Policies at Land-Based Casinos
Responsible gambling in the US is, of course, promoted at land-based casinos as well. Indeed, most licensing terms include safe gambling policies that operators must comply with. The differences with casino sites aren’t that many regarding player protection. Among the strategies land-based casinos apply are:
- Training of employees ā Employees are trained to distinguish compulsive gamblers from responsible players and should easily identify the symptoms of problem gambling.
- Signage ā Most regulators require casinos to hang informative signs on responsible gambling or hand brochures focusing on the topic.
- Advertising limits ā Advertising should not target minors, and it’s advisable to include a responsible gaming message or a helpline number.
- Limits on alcohol consumption ā Alcohol service on the gaming floor is not allowed in many American jurisdictions, while others simply limit serving beverages to players who are visibly intoxicated.
- Deposit, betting, and credit limits – As with safe online gambling, there are deposit limits, credit card limits, and maximum bets that players shouldn’t go over.
- Treatment programs – Most US jurisdictions also require operators to show support to players with gambling disorders and help them find professional treatment.
Naturally, if you feel like gambling is overtaking control of your mind, the easiest way to stay on the good side is to avoid visiting casinos and betting venues. Don’t risk it because the way out is challenging if you fall into the circle of problem gambling.
Children and Gambling – Signs of Addiction
Unfortunately, minors can also suffer from gambling disorders. This problem requires a different approach because symptoms could be different than in adults. If you notice any of the following signs in your child, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional support representative:
- They have friends who gamble regularly.
- Your kid often plays with lottery tickets, cards, or dice.
- They show particular interest in the results of sporting events.
- Your child lies, avoids talking, or is secretive about gambling activities.
- They borrow money from others to gamble, or you notice that money or personal belongings go missing from the house.
- Kids who know their parents have gambled in the past are most likely to engage in gambling activities.
Even if operators and US responsible gaming organizations try their best to keep underage people away from betting, the issue with minors gambling is still on. Lately, online and offline identity verifications are becoming more comprehensive, but teenagers still find a way to bypass security and bet by using crafted fake IDs. Please, be attentive to your child’s behavior and try to keep them away from gambling.
Online Casinos – Red Flags & Warnings
With so many gambling operators online, beginners may find it tricky to tell whether security and player protection are at the required level. That is why you should pay extra attention to where you spend your time and money online. Generally, stick to the rule to play at licensed gaming platforms only – it’s a guarantee that they follow the policies of responsible gambling in the US.
To protect yourself, you should learn the red flags of unauthorized casinos and betting sites. These include a missing gambling permit, no responsible organization partner featured nowhere on the page, and more. Check the others below:
- The online casino does not have a license from an authorized regulator.
- The online casino does not feature self-exclusion and time-limit options for gamblers to select.
- The operator does not cooperate with any responsible gambling organizations or provide a supportive environment for its customers.
- The gaming options’ RNG outcomes have not been verified by designated auditing agencies in the industry.
- The online casino lacks security measures and encryption to protect the players’ data.
- The online casino employs advertisement strategies that encourage US players to gamble beyond the scope of their strategy.
Player protection not only includes offering legal gambling services. It also means not taking advantage of problem gamblers’ vulnerability. Legal US casino sites invest time in training their employees to recognize common symptoms of gambling disorder and to take action to support individuals in seeking recovery.
Problem Gambling in the US – Statistics
According to statistics provided by the National Council on Problem Gambling, 85% of Americans have gambled at least once in their lifetime. In comparison, 60% have done it in the past year. It is only natural because, in 48 states, some form of gambling is authorized. The only exceptions where betting is 100% forbidden are Hawaii and Utah.
Following the same research, the National Council on Problem Gambling states that over 2 million US residents meet the description of having a severe gambling addiction. Between 3% and 4% are considered to have mild gambling disorders or problems with their gambling behavior. Finally, the Council observes that most adults in the second category can gamble responsibly.
Conclusion: Play Safe & Gamble Responsibly
Maintaining a healthy relationship with gambling is essential to keep your life balanced. You need to take care of yourself if you notice the slightest symptoms of addiction – preoccupation, excluding yourself from your usual social activities, feeling anxiety, and lying about your time or money spent gambling are only some among them.
In case any of these signs appear, don’t hesitate to contact one of the responsible gambling organizations in the US. These can help you control your habits, keep them within the safety standards, and show you an alternative way of thinking regarding gaming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We hope our guide to responsible gaming for US players is helpful. To learn more about the topic, check the following section, where we answer the most frequently asked questions on safe gambling. We have gathered essential info on organizations, treatments, and techniques to apply when you or a close one is fighting addiction.
1. How can I tell the difference between responsible and irresponsible gambling?
Safe online gambling is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. For example, problem gambling symptoms can affect all aspects of your life, professionally and personally. Take note of your behavior - trying to win back your losses, instant mood swings, borrowing money, and using gambling as coping techniques are all signs you need to seek support.
2. How can I gamble safely and responsibly?
Safe gaming practices require operators to verify the identity of users and check if they are underage or registered for a self-exclusion program, for example. Indeed, the gambling statistics in the United States show that 2% of adults suffer from severe gambling problems, which demands a more attentive approach.
3. How can legal casinos help with problem gambling prevention?
If you choose a legal gaming operator, you can be sure its platform follows the mandatory responsible gambling policies in the US. That's valid for both online and offline casinos and betting venues because regulators ask them to comply with a strict set of rules to obtain a license.
4. Can problem gambling affect children and teenagers?
The financial debts and behavior changes can harm families, adults, or children. Unfortunately, in the United States, problem gambling among minors is common. The easy access to multiple gaming platforms and fake IDs doesn't make the situation easier. Parents should pay attention to their children because symptoms may vary from those in adults.
5. Which are famous US responsible gambling organizations?
Undoubtedly, Gamblers Anonymous is among the most popular responsible gambling organizations in the US and the world. Its 12-step program has changed gambling recovery treatments, while the "20 Questions" guide has helped many people contain their gambling problems. Other popular organizations are the National Council on Problem Gambling, GamTalk, and Gam-Anon.
6. What organizations can help with problem gambling?
If Gamblers Anonymous or the National Council on Problem Gambling don't have meetings or support groups near you, you can turn to regional organizations. We have listed local responsible gambling boards in the US, so feel free to check them out and reach out.
John Isaac is one of the editors at online-gambling.com. He is an expert at card games, such as blackjack and poker. In addition, he writes about the US gambling laws and the Indian and Dutch gambling markets.