Gambling can be a fun and exciting way to enjoy entertainment, but it's important to approach it responsibly. Whether you're a regular at the pokies or a first-time visitor to a venue, managing your gambling habits is crucial to ensure that it remains an enjoyable and controlled activity. In Australia, there are many resources and tools available to help you gamble responsibly, stay in control, and seek help if needed.
Gambling can easily become a problem if it's not managed properly. While the pokies are designed to be a fun and rewarding experience, it's important to remember that they are ultimately games of chance. The thrill of playing can sometimes lead to people spending more time or money than they originally intended, which can result in financial difficulties, stress, and harm to personal relationships.
Responsible gambling ensures that gambling remains a form of entertainment rather than a source of distress. It helps you understand your limits, stay within your means, and recognize when it's time to step away.
Set a Budget
Before you start playing, decide on a set amount of money you're willing to spend and stick to it. This is your gambling budget, and once it's gone, stop playing. Don't chase losses by continuing to play with money you can't afford to lose.
Limit Your Time
Time can easily slip away while you're immersed in a game. Set a timer or give yourself a predetermined period for playing, and when it's over, step away. It helps prevent you from getting caught up in playing longer than you intended.
Avoid Using Credit
Never gamble with borrowed money or credit. If you're relying on a credit card or loan to play, it's a sign that gambling may be starting to affect your finances. Always gamble with the money you have set aside for entertainment.
Take Breaks
Playing for extended periods without breaks can cloud your judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. Regular breaks will help you stay focused, reduce stress, and keep the experience fun and manageable.
Know When to Walk Away
If you're ahead and have won a bit, consider walking away. The longer you play, the more likely you are to lose what you've gained. Set a win limit to know when it's time to quit while you're ahead.
Don't Drink and Gamble
Alcohol can impair your decision-making abilities, which might lead to risky or impulsive behavior while gambling. It's always a good idea to drink in moderation (or just drink the free tea and coffee on offer!) and take breaks if you're consuming alcohol.
Seek Support if Needed
If you find that gambling is starting to affect other areas of your life, such as relationships, work, or health, it's time to seek help. There are plenty of tools and resources available to help you regain control.
Australia has a number of support services dedicated to helping individuals manage their gambling behavior. Here are some key organizations that provide assistance:
Website: gamblinghelponline.org.au
Gambling Help Online is an Australia-wide service offering free, confidential online and phone support for anyone affected by gambling. Whether you're seeking advice, a self-help guide, or professional counseling, this service offers a range of resources. You can chat online with a counselor or call their helpline 24/7 at 1800 858 858.
Website: www.gambleaware.com.au
Gambling Aware offers tools to help you determine whether you or someone you know has a problem with gambling. They also provide information for family and friends who are concerned about someone's gambling behavior.
Website: financialcounsellingaustralia.org.au
If gambling is affecting your financial situation, Financial Counselling Australia offers professional financial counseling to help you get back on track. The FCA can connect you with services to help manage your debts and improve your financial wellbeing.
Website: lifeline.org.au
Lifeline offers 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. If gambling is leading to emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm, Lifeline's trained counselors are available to talk through your feelings and offer support. Call 13 11 14.
Website: gaaustralia.org.au
Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who have struggled with gambling addiction. GA provides support through meetings and a 12-step program, offering a safe, non-judgmental space for people to discuss their experiences and receive encouragement from others.
In addition to support organizations, there are also practical tools you can use to limit your gambling and manage your behavior.
Self-exclusion is a tool that allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling venues or online gambling platforms for a specified period. In Australia, most states offer self-exclusion programs through venues or online casinos. You can opt for short-term or long-term exclusions, which will prevent you from entering pokies venues or gambling online.
By enrolling in these programs, you can limit your access to pokies and other gambling activities, giving you time to reflect and manage your behavior.
Many pokies venues in Australia offer tools to help players set limits on their spending and time at the machines. These tools might include:
Ask the venue staff about these tools or check the venue's website for more information on their responsible gambling measures.
Pre-commitment systems allow gamblers to set a limit before they start playing pokies, ensuring that they stick to their budget. These systems are increasingly available in Australian venues. By setting a daily or weekly limit on how much you're willing to spend, you can take proactive steps to stay in control of your gambling.
It's important to recognize the signs of gambling problems early. Some warning signs include:
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it's important to seek help before things escalate.
Gambling should always be an enjoyable activity, but it's important to play it safe and manage your behavior. Setting limits, taking breaks, and utilizing tools like self-exclusion programs can help ensure that your pokies experience remains fun and within your control. If you feel that gambling is becoming a problem, don't hesitate to reach out to the many organizations and resources available in Australia for support.
Remember, the pokies are a form of entertainment, and it's up to you to keep it that way.
For more information or to seek help, visit the resources mentioned above, or talk to a support professional today.