Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling is the key to safe and controlled play in when playing at online casinos and sportsbooks.
What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling has become a key concept in the sports betting and online casino industry in recent years. This topic is extremely important for players who may have trouble controlling their betting habits.
The concept of responsible gambling has been developed by online providers, regulatory bodies, and independent companies that oversee online gaming operators. The goal is to provide players with problematic gambling habits the necessary options through various limitations.
Although there is no universal definition, responsible gambling can be defined as managing one’s own emotions and betting habits, i.e., the ability to control the time spent in betting.
The problems that can arise from gambling are recognised by operators as well as independent organisations, and efforts are being made globally to address the systemic issue that irresponsible gambling can cause.
How to recognise problematic behaviour and addiction
Continue reading to learn how to detect problematic behaviour, how gambling addiction develops, and how to help yourself or someone close to you who has issues with betting and gambling habits. If you think you already have problems with your betting habits, first seek help from close friends and specialised institutions.
Symptoms to watch out for
If you recognise any of these symptoms, it is very likely that you have developed some level of gambling addiction and it is recommended to seek help:
Tips for responsible gambling
To reduce the risk of developing an addiction, it is important to learn some techniques and rules and strictly adhere to them:
Responsible gambling in casinos
Most online casinos provide their users with options to limit their behaviour. Here are the most common tools available to players:
Conclusion – Prevention is better than cure
Irresponsible and problematic gambling is an issue that should be taken seriously. If you think you have a gambling problem, we advise you to seek help from family and friends. However, professional help should also be sought if necessary. There are many organisations and institutions in Ireland that can help you get back on the right track.
These organisations represent a team of professionals who, with their knowledge and experience, can help individuals with various degrees of problematic gambling.
Smarmore Castle
Smarmore Castle offers a dedicated programme for gambling addiction, helping many who also struggle with alcohol or drug dependencies. Their 12-step approach includes individual and group therapy, with a focus on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to address the unique challenges of gambling addiction.
Patients work on SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to achieve milestones like stopping gambling, managing finances, and rebuilding relationships. The centre also provides ongoing support post-treatment to minimise the risk of relapse, including aftercare meetings and recommending regular attendance at Gamblers Anonymous.
Rutland Centre
The Rutland Centre has long been at the forefront of gambling addiction treatment in Ireland, addressing the issue even as online gambling has driven a younger demographic to seek help. With 40 years of experience, they offer a range of treatments from counselling sessions to full residential care. Their high abstinence rates reflect their commitment to effective rehabilitation. For more details, visit their treatment services page.
GamblingCare
Established in March 2019, GamblingCare.ie aims to promote safer gambling and provide quick, effective support for those affected by gambling problems, including their friends and family.
They offer advice, advocacy, and referrals to various support services, such as residential programmes, in-person and online counselling, support groups, and self-help tools. Funded by the Gambling Awareness Trust, an independent charity supported by donations from Ireland’s betting and gaming industry, GamblingCare.ie helps individuals at all stages of addiction to regain control of their lives.