go gambling logo

Knowing When to Stop Gambling

Dec 27, 2023

Knowing When to Stop: Understanding Responsible Gaming Limits

The growth of online gambling has been a remarkable and transformative phenomenon in the world of entertainment and gaming. Over the past few years, the digital landscape has witnessed a significant surge in the popularity of online casino houses, reshaping traditional gaming paradigms.


According to Gambling Commission UK, there are over 2,400 gambling operators in the market in UK, with 44 per cent adult gambling participation (UKGC stats ref Nov 2023).


One of the key drivers behind this growth is the convenience offered by online platforms. Players can now access a wide array of casino games from the comfort of their homes or on the go, eliminating the need for physical visits to traditional casinos. The accessibility factor, coupled with advancements in technology, has paved the way for a seamless and immersive online gambling experience, as well as a strict regulation and framework for gambling operators.


Just like any entertainment activity, the online casino world can get exciting and, as a result, needs responsible behaviour for a positive experience. Winning during playing can be enticing and addictive. This is why it's important to employ safe gambling practices to avert potential harm associated with it. 


At Go Gambling, we care for our UK players and have come up with a comprehensive guide on safe playing practices for a healthier playing experience.

PLAY NOW
Affbritish

Responsible gambling explained

To ensure that you are practising responsible gambling, you need to have a clear understanding of what it means in detail. This involves being in control of your gaming habits and being watchful for any signs of problematic gambling behaviour. To stay in control, it is essential to have access to betting tools and strategies. Always bear in mind that a responsible player carefully considers each bet, approaches online casino gaming with a strategic mindset, and focuses on winning the jackpot.


How do you know you have a problem with gambling

If you find yourself betting above your limits and having no control, you have a gambling problem. Online gaming can be addictive, especially when you win big. This triggers endorphins in your brain making you want to play even more. These feel-good emotions can lead to addiction and this is where problems begin. Players keep playing even after losing because of chasing instant gratification. This does not happen to everyone, but it is widespread. The good news is that this problem has a solution.


The importance of gambling awareness

Being aware when gaming online is essential because it means that you are exercising caution. When you are cautious, you are less likely to lose control. It does not mean that you immediately stop when losing, it means understanding the need for responsible gambling. It means understanding what losing control means and coming up with strategies to avoid it.


Do you have a gambling problem?

Knowledge is essential when you want to avoid gambling problems. According to NHS (National Health Service) and Gamblers Anonymous in the UK, the following are signs that you might be having a gambling problem.


  • Constantly thinking a lot about gaming and chasing losses.
  • Spending a substantial amount of money on online casino activities.
  • Frequent irritations when thinking about gaming or when trying to stop it.
  • Destroyed relationships with family and friends because of online gaming.
  • Committing crimes to fund your gaming activities.
  • Borrowing money to play casinos online.
  • Gaming is a way to escape challenges in your life.
  • Having difficulties when trying to stop online gaming.



There could be more signs that are specific to you. If you have experienced any of the above signs you might be having a gaming problem.

How to gamble responsibly

Responsible gambling is a blend of theory and practice. You need to realise where the problem is and develop practical strategies and tips to be safe. These online gambling tips will help you be in control and make gaming fun.


1. Gamble to entertain yourself, not as a source of income

Players should consider gaming as a form of entertainment, not a source of income. Only a few people succeed in being professional gamers. Recreational gamers should not expect to reach a similar level. Therefore, casino playing should be approached with a mindset of entertainment, not with the expectation of financial gain.


2. Tracking your spending

If you do not track your spending, you will not be able to know how much you are spending on gaming. You do not have to track your spending manually. There are some trusted online casinos and betting sites that offer a breakdown of your spending, including how much you have won and lost and how much you have spent on betting. Ensure that you keep track of this regularly.


3. Set a limit in advance

Could you make sure that you set a spending limit before gaming? The main goal is to enjoy the excitement of potential profits without bypassing your set budget despite the outcome. You can also take time out when necessary. Safe and licensed online gambling sites offer you a time-out period when you need it. The time-outs can be a few hours, days, weeks, or an indefinite ban from the online casino site. 


4. Block gambling transactions

If self-exclusion is not working, you can block transactions through your bank to your online casino sites. You can restrict deposits to your casino sites from your bank account.


5. Avoid gambling when drunk or angry

You are likely to make an impaired judgment when you game under the influence of alcohol or when angry. Emotional betting can lead to poor decision-making. Always make sure that you play when sober and emotionally stable.


6. Always Stick to A Realistic Strategy

No strategy guarantees winning bets, but some strategies can help you stay in control of your finances and minimise losses. It starts by limiting the amount of money you deposit on a betting site, and it has to be your cash for non-essential bills. It may also be helpful to plan to avoid gambling alone because that is when you take irrational actions. Do you want to master your online gaming through realistic strategies? Check out this guide for details.


7. Avoid Chasing Betting Losses

As a responsible online bettor, you will do yourself a lot of good if you can avoid chasing your bet losses. Chasing your losses, for instance, will set you up for bigger ones because you will become emotional when you want to regain your money. Rather than chase losses, take a break and learn from your previous errors. You can also review your budget or lower your stake until you recover losses from little winnings.


8. Never See Betting as a Way to Make Money

Staking your money at online casinos should not be seen as a “Get Rich Quick Scheme”, and if you have this mindset, you will surely know when to stop. Experts will recommend that you stick to your spending even if you hit bigger earnings or the jackpots. Over time, you will end up losing more than you earn when you stake your money on games online. You should bet for fun and to socialise online; hence, you should consider money set aside for betting as entertainment money, like the one you spend going to the movies.


9. Maximize Your Free Spins and Rewards

One way to save yourself spending more than necessary on an online casino is to maximise all free rewards, including free spins and daily, hourly, weekly, and monthly rewards. The best online casinos offer rewards right from the moment you join to the point of becoming a VIP member.

As a new member, you want to check certain things about an online casino before you sign up. You should begin by checking their updated license information. Their license suggests whether they are legit or not. You can learn more about the licensing and legality of online casinos by reading an expert guide on the subject matter.

Once you agree with the licensing check, you should check out what the online casino offers. Check if there are welcome bonuses, which may vary, but, in most cases, it can be up to 100% of your initial deposit. Check the site’s wagering account for withdrawal and if there are regular ongoing rewards for loyalty. Some sites may offer great bonuses but have ridiculous wagering requirements to cash out. Use the Go Gambling expert guide on ways to find the best online casinos based on bonuses and rewards to get the right casino for your needs.


10. Don’t Gamble When Upset or Depressed

If you are thinking of using online betting as a way of treating depression or getting relief when upset, then you are taking the wrong step. You are better off getting other kinds of help to deal with depression than gambling.

Making the right staking decision can be more difficult when you are not in the right frame of mind. Hence, it would be best if you placed your bets when your head is clear and you are in the right frame of mind. Online betting is a task; you should choose suitable games, calculate your stake, and go for your desired winnings. Avoid making irrational decisions by playing your favourite online games when you should be relaxing.


Measures UK casinos take for responsible gambling


It is your responsibility to play responsibly. However, licensed online gambling operators have a role to play. The best-paying casinos in the UK offer responsible gambling tools as required by the Responsible Gambling Council. Such tools include:


  • Session limits: A session limiter enables the player to set the duration they want to be active in an online casino. Upon reaching the set limit, the software logs you out automatically.
  • Loss limits: This feature enables you to limit your loss within a session, day, week, or month. You can limit your loss depending on your gaming money and tolerance level.
  • Reality checks: These prompts alert you on how long you have been gaming. All casino sites have this feature. It prevents you from losing track of time.


Playing casinos online should be a fun activity. This guide has given you tips on how to practice responsible gambling and how to address gambling problems when they come up. As long as you have strong self-control you will be able to enjoy the gaming experience responsibly and safely.


Final Thoughts

It's essential to understand betting limits well and know when to stop. Being disciplined is key to success, and it's a habit you need to cultivate through practice. Review your betting strategy and stick to your plan if it isn't working. Refrain from letting occasional winnings tempt you into changing your strategy or increasing your limit. 

It's important to remember that there are no guarantees regarding betting. Being financially disciplined can help you minimise losses and maximise your winnings when gambling online. 

It's easy to lose track of time when betting, which is why it's vital to understand responsible gaming limits. Knowing when to stop means setting a budget and sticking to it, but it also means setting limits for other triggers of irresponsible gambling. Take regular breaks, limit your use of alcohol, and track your time spent gambling, if necessary.

Go Gambling's responsible gambling blog provides more information on how to handle gambling responsibly.


PLAY NOW
lottery does good by go gambling
13 Aug, 2024
Discover how the National Lottery and online gambling operators contribute to charities, communities, and vital causes across the UK. Learn about the £48 billion raised for sports, arts, education, and environmental initiatives, showcasing the broader impact of lottery funding
gambling industry regulatory changes by go gambling
04 Aug, 2024
Explore the 2024 gambling regulatory changes and their impact on the industry. Learn about new player protection measures, AI detection, the rise of crypto gambling, and the challenges of grey markets. Stay informed with GoGambling insignts.
bridgerton inspired slots
02 Aug, 2024
Dive into the elegance and thrill of Regency-era England with Bridgerton-inspired slot games. Explore 8 fantasy slots with themes of romance, ballrooms, and high-stakes adventure. Join the fun and spin to win with these glamorous casino games!
Online Gambling Market Growth Forecast by Go Gambling
02 Aug, 2024
Explore the rapid growth of the online gambling market in 2024. Discover how innovations like AI, blockchain, and VR are reshaping the industry, along with the impact of increasing mobile gaming and internet penetration. Stay ahead with our forecasts.
mobile gambling trends by go gambling
29 Jul, 2024
Discover how mobile gambling is revolutionizing the online gambling industry in 2024. Explore the convenience, accessibility, and technological innovations driving growth, from AR and VR to secure transactions and exclusive bonuses.
multi language support casinos go gambling
26 Jul, 2024
Explore the growing trend of multi-language support in online casinos. Learn how top platforms like Ladbrokes and Fruity King cater to a global audience, improving accessibility, trust, and user experience. Find the best multi-language casino for you.
wekkly casino delas from go gambling
19 Jun, 2024
Discover the best weekly casino deals at GoGambling! Maximize your bankroll, try new games, and enhance your online gaming experience with top offers and bonuses. Explore the latest promotions and get the most value for your money.
go gabling favourite casino perks
07 Jun, 2024
Dive into the best online casino offers available! Explore our expert picks from PlayOJO, Slots Magic, and more with exclusive bonuses and free spins. Perfect for both new and seasoned players looking to enhance their gaming experience.
tips how to handle large lottery wins
05 Jun, 2024
Explore the highs and lows of winning the lottery through the stories of winners who found that sudden wealth can bring as many challenges as it does opportunities. Learn how to navigate the complexities of a big win with insights from past lottery winners and expert advice on managing newfound wealth responsibly.
gambling guide by go gambling
05 Jun, 2024
Dive into the world of online gambling with our comprehensive guide. Explore why online casinos are thriving and learn about the legal landscape, game varieties, bonuses, and responsible gaming practices. Whether you're a novice or an experienced gambler, find valuable insights and tips to enhance your online gambling experience.
More Posts
Share by: