Responsible Gaming

Safe gambling starts with small, conscious choices you make before you play. The following strategies can help you keep gaming as a form of entertainment and not a source of stress.

• Set a fixed budget for gambling and stick to it
• Decide a time limit before you start playing and log out when the time is over
• Use only money that you can afford to lose, never funds meant for bills, rent, education, or household needs
• Avoid chasing losses; accept them as part of the game and stop when your limit is reached
• Take regular breaks to stay alert and make clear decisions
• Avoid gambling when you are tired, stressed, upset, or under the influence of alcohol or any substances
• Turn on responsible gaming tools in your account, such as deposit limits, loss limits, and session reminders
• Keep gambling separate from your main source of income; do not treat it as a way to earn money
• Monitor your gambling history regularly to see how much time and money you are spending
• Speak openly with trusted family or friends about your gambling habits so someone else is aware of your limits

Gambling can slowly shift from entertainment to a serious problem. Early recognition of warning signs can help you seek support in time.

Common signs of gambling addiction include:

• Thinking about gambling very often, even when you are not playing
• Increasing bet sizes to feel the same level of excitement
• Struggling to stop or reduce gambling even when you try to cut down
• Chasing losses and trying to win back money you have already lost
• Hiding gambling from family or friends, or lying about the amount of time and money spent
• Using loans, credit cards, or borrowing money to gamble
• Delaying or missing payments for essentials due to gambling expenses
• Feeling restless, irritable, or low when you try not to gamble
• Neglecting work, studies, or family duties because of gambling
• Gambling to escape from stress, loneliness, or negative emotions

Online gambling services are intended for adults who have reached the legal age of majority. In India, this usually means 18 years or older, or 21 years in some states and local jurisdictions. You must check and follow the laws that apply in your specific state or union territory.

Casinos and betting websites must not be used by minors under any circumstances. Account registration, deposits, and online casino play should only be completed by adults using their own details and payment methods. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor device use at home and to use parental control tools to prevent access to gambling sites by minors.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary step that allows you to block your access to gambling accounts for a chosen period. It is a practical measure if you feel that your gambling is getting out of control or that you need a break to regain balance.

Most reputable online casinos offer self-exclusion options in the account settings or through customer support. You can request a temporary break for a few days or weeks, or a longer self-exclusion that can last several months or more. During this time, you should not be able to log in, deposit, or place bets on that site.

You may also contact customer support and ask for help in setting stronger restrictions, such as permanent account closure or blocking of marketing messages. In some regions, there are central self-exclusion registers that can block you from several licensed operators at once. Before choosing any site, review its responsible gaming page to understand the type of self-exclusion tools and support they provide.

Professional help can make a significant difference if you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling. Support in India is available in the form of counselling, helplines, and mental health services.

Key organisations and resources in India include:

• National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS)
  Based in Bengaluru, offers specialised mental health and addiction services, both inpatient and outpatient. Website: https://nimhans.ac.in
• All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi – Department of Psychiatry
  Provides assessment and treatment for behavioural addictions through its addiction and psychiatry units. Website: https://www.aiims.edu
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) – iCALL Psychosocial Helpline
  Telephone and email counselling for mental health and addiction related concerns. Website: https://icallhelpline.org | Helpline: +91 91529 87821
• Fortis National Mental Health Programme
  Network of hospitals that offer mental health and de-addiction services in several Indian cities. Website: https://www.fortishealthcare.com
• Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), Delhi
  Tertiary care centre that treats a range of mental health and addiction issues, including behavioural addictions. Website: https://ihbas.delhi.gov.in
• Local psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and de-addiction centres
  Many cities in India have private and government facilities where you can seek confidential help for gambling and related mental health concerns.

If you feel that gambling is harming your life, consider contacting one of these services or speaking to a registered mental health professional in your area. Early consultation can prevent further financial, emotional, and social damage.