Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being enjoyable, it's time to take a step back.
Need to Talk to Someone?
If gambling is causing problems in your life, there's no shame in asking for help. These people have heard it all before.
What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling means enjoying casino games as a form of entertainment while maintaining control over how much time and money you spend. It involves making informed decisions and knowing when to stop.
Key principles of responsible gambling include:
- Gambling with money you can afford to lose
- Setting time and money limits before you start
- Never chasing losses
- Taking regular breaks
- Not gambling when upset, stressed, or under the influence
- Treating gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money
Setting Your Limits
Money Limits
- • Set a gambling budget separate from essential expenses
- • Use deposit limits offered by casinos
- • Never borrow money to gamble
- • Set loss limits and stick to them
Time Limits
- • Decide how long to play before starting
- • Set reminders to take breaks
- • Use session time limits offered by casinos
- • Balance gambling with other activities
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
In Yourself
- Spending more money than you can afford to lose
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
- Chasing losses by betting more after losing
- Lying to friends or family about gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
- Thinking about gambling constantly
In Others
- Secretive about finances or whereabouts
- Mood swings or personality changes
- Unexplained debts or missing money
- Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Work or relationship problems
- Asking to borrow money frequently
Taking a Break
Sometimes the smartest thing you can do is step away completely. There's no shame in that - it's actually a sign of strength. Here are your options in Ireland:
- National Exclusion Register (NEW)
The GRAI has introduced this in 2024. One registration blocks you from ALL licensed Irish gambling sites. It's free and confidential.
- Individual Casino Self-Exclusion
Every casino lets you self-exclude for 6 months up to permanently. Just contact their support. They have to do it - it's the law.
- Deposit & Time Limits
If full exclusion feels too drastic, all Irish-licensed casinos must offer deposit limits, loss limits, and session time reminders. Use them.
Help & Support Resources
Age Restriction
Gambling is strictly for adults only
Online gambling is illegal for anyone under 18 (or 21 in some jurisdictions). All legitimate casinos verify age during registration. Never allow minors access to gambling accounts.