At EveryTip.co.uk, we champion the enjoyment of gambling as a form of leisure and entertainment, not as a means to financial gain. Understanding and acknowledging the risks associated with gambling is crucial. We are deeply committed to promoting safe gambling practices among our community. It’s essential to recognize the importance of gambling within your means and seek assistance if you find your gambling habits are adversely affecting your life. Here, we offer guidance on maintaining control and where to find support and advice.
Reflect on Your Gambling Habits
Asking yourself honest questions about your gambling behaviour can help you maintain a healthy relationship with gambling. Consider the following:
- Do you skip work or school to gamble?
- Is gambling a way for you to escape from a mundane or unhappy life?
- Do you continue to gamble until you have no money left?
- Have you ever lied to conceal the extent of your gambling?
- Has anyone ever expressed concern about your gambling habits?
- Have you ever committed fraud or theft to finance your gambling?
- Is your interest in family, friends, or hobbies waning because of gambling?
- Do you feel compelled to recoup your losses immediately after a loss?
- Does your gambling make you feel depressed?
If these questions cause concern, we encourage you to take a self-assessment test on the GambleAware website to gain further insights into your gambling behavior.
Guidelines for Responsible Gambling
To ensure that gambling remains a source of entertainment, we suggest adhering to the following guidelines:
- Budget for Entertainment: Only gamble with money you’ve set aside for fun, not with funds needed for essentials like bills or groceries.
- Accept Losses: Accept any losses as part of the entertainment cost, and resist the urge to chase them.
- Time and Money Limits: Set clear limits on how much money and time you’re willing to spend on gambling.
- Prioritize Your Well-being: Never allow gambling to take precedence over spending time with family or friends.
- Gambling is Not a Source of Income: View gambling as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
- Avoid Gambling in Emotional Distress: Steer clear of gambling when feeling upset, angry, or depressed.
- Stay Sober: Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you find yourself struggling to adhere to these guidelines, it may be time to seek help.
Seeking Help and Support
Recognizing when to seek help is a sign of strength. Numerous resources are available for anyone struggling with their gambling habits:
- GambleAware: Offers free support and counselling for problem gamblers and their families.
- GamCare: Provides information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling harms.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others to do the same.
At EveryTip.co.uk, we believe in the joy and excitement that gambling can bring when practiced responsibly. We’re committed to ensuring that our community has access to the resources and support they need to gamble safely.