Home page/ Responsible Gambling

Responsible Gambling

Gambling is meant to be a form of entertainment. Now that online casinos are easily accessible, people can enjoy casino games whenever they want. With every good comes some bad. Easy access to online casinos and sportsbooks could lead to problem gambling. The team at CasinoRIX wants every Canadian to know how to approach gambling responsibly and be aware of the signs of problem gambling. On this page, we’ll provide helpful information and expert opinions on responsible gambling.

Last update: May 1st, 2024, 11:27 am

Advantages and Disadvantages of Gambling

Gambling has pros and cons. When players are informed, they can make good decisions using online casinos. A loss shouldn’t hurt an informed player because they were prepared for it. While nobody wants to lose, it’s something every player needs to expect.

Remember, the definition of gambling is to take a risky action in hopes of a desired result. Players take a risk by putting their own money down because there is a chance that they could walk away with a massive prize.

We believe that every player should be familiar with the pros and cons of gambling before they participate. Gambling does have its fair share of advantages, but players will only benefit from them if they approach gambling responsibly. Before we delve into our guide on responsible gambling, we think every reader should learn about the advantages and disadvantages that are associated with gambling.

Gambling sites provide Canadians with the convenience of accessing casino games and sportsbooks on their schedule.
Playing online casino games lets players choose from thousands of exciting game titles.
Multipliers on casino games give players the chance to win massive payouts on low wagers.
Online casinos provide bonuses and promotions that allow players to maximize their winnings for free.

Risk of losing money every time you play.
Easy access to casino services can result in addiction.
Impulsive gambling leads to financial problems.
Fraudulent websites can scam vulnerable players.
Online gambling removes the social aspect that’s present in land-based casinos.
The casino has the house edge for every game provided.
Players can be deceived by unclear terms and conditions, such as non-cashable bonuses or promotions that tie their deposit into the wagering requirements.

Signs of an Addicted Person

Gambling addiction could happen to anyone. Knowing the signs of an addicted person could help you spot when a loved one is in trouble. We believe that everyone should learn about the signs of gambling addiction. By knowing what to look for, you could help someone get the support they need. Below are some of the most common signs of a gambling addiction.

Preoccupied With Gambling

A person with a gambling problem will have gambling on the brain 24/7. When they aren’t placing bets, they’re thinking about their next bet. They check their casino accounts frequently and may even plan how they’re going to acquire the funds for their next round of betting.
Increasing Bets and Frequency

One of the top signs of a gambling problem is a change in the pattern of how much they are betting and how frequently. It’s not just the funds they’re adding to their account that’s a sign. One of the biggest signs is how much money they are wagering for each bet. An addicted person will likely make impulsive bets of a large size that are risky. They won’t think of the consequences if they lose the money.
Difficulty Controlling Gambling

An addiction can lead a person to continue gambling, even if they know they shouldn’t. In their minds, they know they should stop and they may even want to. But, the addiction keeps bringing them back for one more bet.
Neglecting Responsibilities

It’s common for addicted people to neglect their responsibilities. You may notice signs like neglecting to clean up after themselves or neglecting personal hygiene. If a person’s addiction spirals, they could start to miss work or neglect personal relationships to spend more time gambling.
Financial Problems

The majority of people with gambling problems will lose more money than they win. This can lead to serious financial problems. Some people have even put themselves into poverty from gambling. It’s also common for people with gambling addictions to steal money to fund their habits.
Concealing or Lying About Gambling

It’s very common for someone with a gambling problem to try to cover up their habit. They don’t want others to know how bad it has gotten. They will often lie or conceal their gambling activity.
Emotional Distress

You may notice changes in an addicted person’s well-being and behaviour. This is because the addiction has put stress on them. They may seem irritable or withdrawn. A gambling addiction can lead to anxiety, depression, and feeling lost.
Relationship Strain

It’s common for a person with a gambling problem to isolate themselves. The habit and it’s effects can cause a person to become distant. This can greatly affect a person’s relationship with their significant other, family, and friends.
Chasing Losses

Chasing losses is one of the biggest mistakes a gambler can make. This is when they believe that they should keep playing because a win will come and they’ll be able to make back the money lost. But this seldom works out in their favour. Chasing losses usually just leads to bigger financial problems.

What Causes Ludomania?

Ludomania is a behavioural addiction. This occurs when a person has compulsive gambling habits. It will seem as though they have the uncontrollable urge to gamble and never think about the consequences beforehand. Of course, ludomania doesn’t just come out of nowhere. Below are some of the main reasons why people develop pathological gambling habits.

Biological Factors

Two individuals with similar financial backgrounds can be exposed to the same gambling events, but one might develop a gambling problem due to genetic factors affecting their brain’s reaction, particularly if they have dopamine or serotonin dysfunctions.

Psychological Factors

Psychological factors could increase a person’s risk of developing a gambling problem. Many people use games as a way to cope with negative emotions or temporarily escape reality. Casino games provide a rush that vulnerable people could get addicted to. People with personality disorders are at a higher risk of problem gambling.

Environmental Factors

Nurture plays just as big of a role in how a person views gambling as nature. The people and places a person is exposed to influence how they view things. If a person grew up in a family with a history of addiction, it could play a role in how they view gambling.

Reinforcement and Conditioning

Understanding ludomania involves grasping the role of reinforcement and conditioning in decision-making. Reinforcement makes behavior more predictable, while conditioning links consequences to behavior. In ludomania, winning reinforces gambling due to the positive association, while losing conditions individuals to chase losses by continuing to gamble.

Social and Peer Influence

Peer influence also plays a big role in people’s behaviour. If someone has friends or family members who participate in gambling often, they will be exposed to it. When gambling is a common link in social groups, a person can begin to view it as normal. This can strongly increase the likelihood of problematic gambling in a vulnerable person.

Is Gambling Addiction a Common Problem?

Millions of people worldwide are affected by gambling addiction. According to Statistics Canada, approximately 1.6% of Canadians have a gambling problem. That percentage may sound small, but in reality, that’s 304,400 people. This problem is a lot more common than people realize.

A gambling addiction can have very real consequences. The main issue is financial problems. An addicted person will spend their savings, go into debt, and may even resort to stealing to fund this habit. Financial issues are just the tip of what could go wrong when a person gets addicted to gambling. This addiction can also damage relationships and lead to severe mental health issues.

Gambling addiction is a very serious problem. But it is treatable. There are many options for individuals to seek help. Some of the most effective ways to overcome this problem are through therapy and support groups. There are also many resources available to ensure people have all of the information and support they need.

How To Overcome a Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction is a serious problem, and overcoming the addiction can be challenging. While recovery does take time, there are plenty of resources and support out there. Always be patient and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Below are some of the ways that people can overcome gambling addictions.

Raise Awareness

Staying quiet about gambling addiction needs to stop. When we raise awareness of addiction, we can also shine a light on the available resources for help. The more educated people are about gambling addiction, the more prepared they will be to spot the signs and get treatment.
Access to Support

Every individual should know what options are available to them for support. Some of the most common types of support are therapy, counselling, and support groups. These options can be found at a low cost in many communities. There are also options for online resources.
Early Intervention

A gambling problem will start before it becomes a full-blown problem. By knowing the signs, you can put a stop to it before it becomes serious. The sooner the problem is addressed, the less severe the consequences are.
Screening and Assessment

Speak to your doctor about an assessment. Many healthcare professionals will provide screenings for gambling addiction. With a screening, the professionals may also recommend services and provide information to players at risk.
Training for Healthcare Professionals

Adequate training for healthcare professionals in every region can make a huge difference. When professionals know how to identify a person with a gambling problem, they can provide appropriate resources and referrals for treatment.
Suicide Prevention Hotlines

Gambling addiction can take a major toll on a person’s mental health. They can begin to feel hopeless and out of control. Access to prevention hotlines is essential because they provide real support and resources that vulnerable people need.
Support Networks

There are options to seek help from support groups in local communities and online. Gamblers Anonymous is one of the top online resources for people with problem gambling habits. These networks aim to create a safe and supportive place to have discussions and provide support.
Collaboration and Partnerships

Some of the best ways to seek treatment are from professional providers that have collaborated, such as healthcare workers and local organizations. This makes treatment more accessible for people who need it.
Reduce Stigma

One of the ways that everyone can help is by reducing the stigma around problem gambling. Many people realize they have a problem but feel ashamed to speak up and ask for help. By making sure people are aware that they can receive support without judgment, they won’t feel ashamed to seek help.

Alternatives of gambling

Gambling is meant to be an entertaining hobby. But, it should never be a person’s main interest. There are so many other exciting activities that people should explore. The key is to find an activity that excites you but also challenges you (mentally, creatively, or physically). Below are some of the best hobbies to distract your mind from gambling.

Video Games – A lot of people are initially attracted to gambling because they enjoy playing games. Video games provide people the option to play exciting games without putting their finances at risk. Many video games also allow you to socialize with other players, so you can chat with people with similar interests.
Painting/ Drawing – Expressing yourself creatively can be very relaxing and rewarding. Painting and drawing are both activities that let people express and explore their emotions. Art also allows people to experiment as freely as they want. Similar to gambling, you could hit the jackpot by creating a piece you can monetize.
Hiking – Hiking is a great hobby, physically and mentally. It allows you to get outdoors, enjoy physical activity, and discover new spots throughout your community. This is a great way to enjoy your free time and take your mind off of gambling.
Cooking – Cooking is an essential skill, but it can also be a fun hobby. Spending time in the kitchen allows you to be creative and explore new flavours and dishes. You can use innovative ideas to create recipes, and your family will probably enjoy testing out your new experiments.
Language learning – One of the most rewarding ways to challenge yourself is to learn a new language. There are many ways to learn a language, such as classes or a paid learning app. This hobby could also open new doors for you professionally.
Yoga – Yoga is an excellent activity for physical and mental health. Many people turn to this form of exercise to improve their flexibility. But it’s also a great way to reduce stress and feel calmer naturally.
Writing – Writing allows you to channel your thoughts onto paper. This can be a great hobby for simply clearing your mind by expressing thoughts. But you can also enjoy various forms of creative writing or blogging.
Music – Music can be enjoyed in many different ways. Some people may find enjoyment from learning how to play a musical instrument. Others may find joy in passing time by discovering new songs and bands.
Upcycling – Upcycling allows people to get creative while reducing their carbon footprint. You can create something new and awe-inspiring out of an old item that’s just sitting around collecting dust. This hobby could also present opportunities to make money.
Volunteer – Volunteering allows you to make a positive change in your community. You can get involved and meet new people in your community. It’s a great way to make a difference while also spending time doing something you enjoy doing.

Last update: May 1st, 2024, 11:27 am

Myths and Facts About Ludomania

Ludomania is a lot more serious than people realize. There are a lot of myths circulating around the stigma of compulsive gambling. However, problem gambling needs to be taken as seriously as other addictions. The team at CasinoRIX wants to put an end to some of the myths and present some real facts about Ludomania.

Gambling addiction can change the brain, making it difficult for players to control their behaviour.
People with mental health issues are at a higher risk of becoming addicted to gambling.
There are several forms of treatment available for gambling addiction, including support groups and therapy.

People choose to gamble compulsively and can stop at any time, they just choose not to.
People with a good financial background don’t get addicted to gambling.
Gambling addiction is rare and only affects a small number of people.

Helpful Resources for Gamblers in Canada

Nobody should feel like they are alone if they are experiencing problem gambling. A gambling addiction can seriously affect a person’s financial situation, relationships, and mental health. We want every Canadian to know about some of the top resources available to them.

Canada Safety Council - Canada Safety Council has provided information and resources for all Canadians. They have also provided a list of problem helplines for each province.
Centre For Addiction and Mental Health - CAMH provides very detailed information on problem gambling. This resource also provides education, programs, and information regarding counselling.
Gamblers Anonymous - Gamblers Anonymous is the #1 online resource worldwide for seeking help on gambling problems. There are Gamblers Anonymous resources throughout the country.
Gambling Therapy - If your gambling problem has gotten you so deep in financial ruin that you can’t afford help, your journey isn’t over. Gambling Therapy online provides free advice and emotional support to people with gambling addiction. All of their advice is practical and can really make a difference.

What to Do If You Have an Abusive Gambling Problem

If you have or suspect that you may have a gambling problem, you should first complete one of the many problem gambling self-assessment questionnaires available online.

After that, and if the result is positive, you should seek professional help. In the meantime, you should also self-exclude from online casinos, contact the support lines or organizations provided and take care of yourself, avoiding the associations or behaviors that led you to gamble online.

Author and Expert Opinion on Responsible Gambling

Kris Olson, Expert Casino Reviewer & Journalist at CasinoRIX

We believe that gambling is a lot of fun as long as you approach it with a responsible mindset. A lot of casino games are thrilling and designed for quick play. Those features get people hooked. Adding in the possibility of winning a jackpot leads people to chase that win. If you don’t play responsibly, this fun experience could become a major problem for your finances, relationships and mental health.

FAQ

We hope that we covered everything you wanted to know about responsible gambling on this page. This is a very serious topic and we want to make sure you have all the information you need to make good decisions. Check out the most frequently asked questions below to learn more.

What is the safest way to gamble?

The safest way to gamble is to view it as a form of entertainment. You should have a set budget before playing. This will be from your entertainment budget and shouldn’t affect your everyday needs if you lose it. Every player should also set limits for themselves before they play, such as maximum bet limit, loss limit, or how long they can play. Most importantly, never view gambling as a way to make money.
What rule should I always follow for responsible gambling?

The #1 rule for responsible gambling is to never bet money you can’t afford to lose. There is no guarantee that you will win any bet you place. Every bet is risky, so you should approach it with a mindset that you will lose. This way, winning is just an exciting perk of playing the game.
Does the house have the edge on every casino game?

It doesn’t matter if you’re playing online or at a land-based casino. The house always has the edge for every casino game, giving them the advantage. This is because the casino needs to earn a set amount of money to cover the costs. However, every game does have regulations to follow and must pay out to players.
How can I avoid chasing losses?

The most realistic way to stop chasing losses is to accept that you lost simply. This goes back to why every gambler must have a budget. Play with the mindset that you could lose your budget. If it happens, accept it and move on. Don’t spend more than you intended, thinking it’s possible to win the money back. That plan rarely works out for people who try it.