Help minimize online gambling addictions - Responsibilities and Roles

There’s actually nothing wrong with online gambling per say. It’s a great way to pass some fun time and relax. However, like in everything else in life, when it’s out of proportion it becomes a bad and even dangerous habit. When it reaches such a level, people start pointing fingers. Some people blame the gambler himself, some blame platforms providers, some blame the government for not doing enough in terms of legislations and some blame the society for not referring to this issue enough. In general the whole pointing fingers approach is not my personal favorite, for the simple reason that it doesn’t solve any problem and doesn’t help reducing the negative consequences that are caused by this issue. I personally prefer to go with taking responsibility not as a ‘fault’ but as a ‘role to play’.

Responsibilities and Roles:

When you refer to a responsibility as a role someone takes upon himself it immediately turns this concept into an active and productive one. You’re not looking for people to be hanged; you simply ask that people will act in order to improve the situation. To do that you need to look into the circles of influence. ‘Circles of influence’ means different levels of individuals or groups that are influenced by or are influencing something. In this case we might consider following:

• The online gambler
• The gambler’s family
• Games providers
• The close and general community of the gambler
• Legislations bodies – government, The international internet society

You can probably think of several others, but these are the main ones that come to mind. Now that we have this mapped out it’s easier to try and understand which role each of them should be taking under their responsibility. Going from the larger scale ones to the smaller:

If we’ll look on a high level only we can say that: the legislations bodies need to make sure there are laws that make sure the addicted gambler is protected and that no one takes advantage of his condition. The community of the gambler is responsible to provide supporting groups and educational support. The games provider is responsible to provide preventive information and maybe even actively help to avoid reaching critical levels of addiction. The gambler’s family is responsible to identify the problem in time and actively try to stop it from deteriorate and of course, the gambler himself is responsible to try and avoid reaching an addictive level and if reached, try and do everything possible to snap out of it.

Let’s take this to a deeper level with one of the circles mentioned above – the Games providers. In order to demonstrate just how far, help from this circle can reach, I’ll use an example of one of the sites I’m in contact with – Winnings. which did not stop with simply placing a link to an addiction support organization from their footer, like many other online gambling sites do. They’ve decided to take an active part in helping people to avoid becoming addicted and in helping to minimize the damage if they did become addicted. To name just a few of their tools for helping players:

• They have a ‘Self Exclusion’ option that if a player activates, his account is closed for good or paused for 1/3/6 months. This cannot be undone once activated.
• They maintain a ‘Deposit limit’ policy in which a player can set himself a max limit on a daily and/or weekly basis.
• Full disclosure – in Winnings.com all of the player’s account information is available to that player all the way back to his first deposit. Any player can know exactly how much he spent and when.

As you can see, a game provider can become an active participant in helping preventing gambling to deteriorate into an addiction and all this without harming their business strategy or revenue. In this I’ll finish and say that I urge every games provider out there to learn from this and apply in your site. With small steps taken by many, much can be achieved.

Author Bio:
Karl Angus is an online gaming specialist that has been engaged in minimizing gambling addiction for the past few years. You can play safely at WSOP website.

Online Casinos Did Not Create Surge in Gambling Addiction

The policies of legislators on online gambling are hugely different from country to country. In the United States online gambling is mostly banned, and players spend most of their time in land-based casinos or engaged in social gambling activities over the internet which doesn't involve any real money. In Europe, the policies are much different - in most countries of the European Union online gambling is regulated based on a common framework, generating significant tax income for their respective governments. There is one problem that holds back the creation of unified legal frameworks for the world's governments on online gambling, though - the widespread belief that easy access to gambling outlets online will create a surge in gambling addiction. But science has proven that this is far from being the truth. A study conducted by the Harvard Medical School's Division on Addiction has found no evidence of this claim.

The team from Harvard took a good look on problem gambling statistics for the last 35 years to observe any tendency of growth in the number of problem gamblers. Online casinos were first introduced in the mid 1990s, so if they have the potential to create a gambling addiction boom, it should have shown up in the statistics so far. But the researchers have found that despite the increased availability of online gambling, the instances of gambling addiction have remained constant in the time period they studied.

This means that even if people play slot games at any online casino each day, they generally don't fall into excess and become problem gamblers at all. And casinos go to lengths to increase their user base - the Royal Vegas, for example, offers its players free bets, deposit matches, promotions and specials each month, not to mention their library of over 700 exciting games to play. More importantly, professinal casinos like Royal Vegas have excellent player support. Players who might feel that they have a gambling problem can contact casino support and request that a daily deposit limit be set on their account in order to help them curb their spending. Players can also close their account quickly. But most importantly, these online casinos are committed to promoting responsible online gambling and hence are approved and certified by important bodies such as eCOGRA, indicating that they engage in safe gambling practices.

The Division on Addiction of the Harvard Medical School has conducted a survey on the gambling behavior of over 4,000 online gamblers - the largest batch ever to be surveyed in a scientific study. Their findings were interesting: the number of players who have exhibited "intense gambling behavior that far exceeded the rest of the sample" was only between 1% and 5%. The study has concluded that the surge in problem gambling the anti-online-gambling activists like to use in their rhetoric is not caused by online casinos.

But let's take a look at the numbers, shall we? According to a recent estimate, gamblers have lost about $475 billion worldwide in casinos. And the percentage of cash lost at online casinos is a minuscule part of the total - not even 10%. Players in the United States (where access to online gambling is restricted to just a handful of states) have lost a staggering $109 billion in 2013 alone. And about 80% of the Americans gamble at least once a year.

Gambling Addiction The Stats Tells It All

Studies related to gambling addiction have revealed some shocking statistics about the condition. The following are some of the statistics about gambling addiction.

• It is estimated that around 2%-3% of people in America suffer from Gambling addiction. This means that millions of people in the United States of America suffer from this unique disorder.

• Other studies indicate that even though males comprise of a major chunk of people suffering from this disease, there is an increase in the number of women developing this disease.

• According to a study, people in the US spend $5 billion annually on gambling activities.

• Families of people suffering from gambling addiction are more likely to face domestic violence as gambling addicts most commonly engage in frequent quarrel and fights with their family members over the issue of gambling.

• According to a study, the children of gambling addicts are more likely to develop mental disorders such as stress, depression and other mental disorders.

Gambling laws change from country to country, You can read more about Responsible Gambling in New Zealand..

These were some of the statistics associated with the condition of gambling addiction. Due to the increase in the use of Internet, gambling has become more common among households as more and more women as well as teenagers are engaging in some kind of gambling activity. Playing online roulette is a very great way to have a wonderful time. The online gaming networks, such as Royal Vegas Singapore Casino, are great places to learn how to play roulette. These online casinos offer roulette systems and tips and techniques on how to win.

Gambling addiction treatment

For those who are worried that their gambling addiction will never be treated, the following are some of the gambling addiction treatment options that help you to get rid of the problem.

Medication:

There is medication available, which helps to get rid of gambling addiction. These include anti- depressants and mood stabilizers. However, these medicines should be strictly consumed under the guidance of a psychiatrists or your family doctor as anything excess of these medications can lead to serious consequences on your physical as well as your mental health.

Psychotherapy:

This is one of the most effective treatments for gambling addiction. In this person suffering gambling addiction is brainwashed and hence learn to analyze his/her addictive gambling and compulsive behavior, which in turn helps the person to get rid of the problem.

Counseling:

Expert advice always helps. Various certified counselors advise people suffering from gambling addiction on how to control their impulsive behavior and advise them in resolving their financial crises and debt management.

These were some of the best treatment options available for people suffering gambling addiction. If you play casino games online there are some sites which are against gambling addictions, which are limiting the deposit sum a person can deposit, and help control the situation. But in any case, if you are one of those people who are looking to get rid of gambling addiction then it is advisable that you follow the above treatment options.

Treatment for Gambling Addiction

Several experts state that it is difficult for a person to accept the fact that he/she has a gambling problem. This in turn makes it difficult to treat the problem as it becomes difficult to know whether a person is really suffering from gambling addiction. However, the good thing is that treatment for gambling addiction exists and a person doesn’t need to divulge his/her identity. The best way to treat gambling addiction is to talk about the problem with someone especially with a loved one or close friends. If you are not feeling comfortable talking to others, then it is better to discuss with members of gambling charities. If the above-mentioned tips don’t work, then there are other treatments available such as undergoing psychological therapies and counseling. Doing this will help you to identify the main cause behind the gambling addiction. Group support is helpful as they help people with similar disorders to talk and sort out the problem as they get the support of others. Apart from these, there are several other self-help techniques, which can help people to come out from their gambling addiction. These include, giving out the bankcards or credit cards to people who you trust. For safe gambling, you can go to WJMC, and get all the tips and info.

Playing in a controlled environment helps

Gambling addiction affects millions of people in the United States. Even though males constitute a major part of people suffering from this disorder, more and more women are also falling to this disorder by participating heavily in gambling activities such as lotto, and card games and others.

It's hard to blame operators, even thought some don't act in a responsible manner when it comes to the players. Although there are many great gambling sites. See the web for instance, which is a perfect example of a responsible gambling operator, and works in conjunction with certified regulators such as Gamcare to ensure uphold a strict responsible gaming policy which protects the vulnerable and ensures gambling remains a leisure pursuit and nothing more, weather you play poker, roulette or slots, you should do it in a more responsible and protecting environment, and responsible gaming casino is a great place to do so.

A person needs to show a minimum of five symptoms to be diagnosed with gambling addiction. Some of the symptoms include poor impulse control with respect to gambling and refusing to admit about having a habit of gambling and other uncertain behavior.

The families of people suffering from gambling addiction are also suffering. This is mainly because the rates of domestic violence and child abuse are higher in families of gambling addicts. It is important to diagnose the problem of gambling addiction especially if a person suffering from the disorder wishes to get rid of the problem. If a person is unable to diagnose the problem, he/she will not be able to treat the condition.

Gambling is not all bad, and many people around the world enjoying playing the various casino games. It is very important to play at a reputable sites like Zynga, with controlled environment which supports the players in a much comprehensive way.

There are so many games available at All Slots Casino that you have the chance to try new games just about every time you visit. Play anywhere in Canada on your home computer or mobile device.

The Impact Of Online Poker On The Culture

Poker is a game of cards and its playing style has bought a major change in terms of popularity today. Earlier people enjoyed the game on table and today there has been a significant improvement in its style and variation. Players now can play online which is much faster and easier. Online poker provides the same experience that you get in land based casinos. Researches show that the game has both positive and negative impact.

Online gaming facility has inspired many new players to come in and enjoy. Readily available guide, coaching schools etc has made many players try the game, who had never thought would try poker and this is the reason of poker being in culture. Internet poker is easy to access and thus experienced players can play often.

You can also find a variety of opponents, playing with different strategy. This has widened the range of competition making the game more interesting and challenging. It also reduces the waiting time and now you can enjoy a good game anytime. You can play with anyone around the world.

You can pick games online, depending on your expertise and also instead of meeting the opponent face to face, you can select one from anywhere in the world. Online poker also features a range of new tournaments and challenges where top players can participate and showcase their skill. This will boost their ability, interest and recognition.

If you are interested and wish to try the game then Web world is open for you. There are sites packed with interesting information, stories of experienced players, and guide to help you know the world of poker. So, what are you waiting for? Just browse through the cyber world, try similar sites, and know how the online version is different from the traditional one and why it’s in culture. you can also check out the Online casino blue book for safe and responsible gaming, and you can Claim sportsbook bonuses, plus read reviews, anytime.

Underage Gambling in Australia

Gambling is undoubtedly an entrenched part of Australian culture. Significant research has ben carried out in this area in recent years, as concerns grow about the impact of all forms of gambling on the fabric of Australian society.

Some recent research found that over $18 billion is wagered by Australians every year, which is around $1500 per capita, while around 70% of Australia’s population is thought to engage in some form of betting activity every year. This rate is much higher than in other developed countries, such as New Zealand, Canada and the US, with pokies being by far the most popular form of gambling in Australia.

Of particular and growing concern is the rate of underage gambling in Australia. The most recent research has shown that there are more problem gamblers in the 15 to 17 age group than amongst adults, with a significant proportion of Australian problem gamblers aged between 18 and 30.

The rise of online gambling is considered to have contributed significantly to these figures; Australians are estimated to wager close to $1 billion online each year, with industry reports suggesting that the market is expanding by as much as 10-20% annually.

Internet gambling sites operated from Australia are prohibited from accepting Australian players, but there is no restriction on Australians accessing international sites. Some observers believe that this has led to an increase in underage gambling, claiming that sites that are unregulated in Australia are not undertaking the necessary age verification checks that prevent underage players from playing at online casinos. For more info go to trusted sites like the AussieCasinoGambling Homepage

However, the perception that the entire online gaming industry is negligent when it comes to preventing underage gambling is not a wholly accurate one. Despite being operated from outside of Australia, online casinos are nevertheless subject to regulation, both by the gaming authorities of the jurisdictions from which they operate and by independent accreditation agencies, and these certify as to the effectiveness and fairness of their operations, including their responsible gambling policies.

Therefore, it’s possible for Australian players to find online casinos that have responsible gaming policies and practices that are equal to those in place in land-based establishments. Online directory sites for instance, only list casinos that are accredited by a third-party testing agency and have responsible gambling policies in place that prevent underage players from accessing their sites.

For parents concerned about their children accessing online casino sites, it is also possible to download software that prevents this;

Overall, therefore, while there are rightly concerns about the incidence of underage gambling in Australia, there are wider societal issues that need to be addressed alongside of scrutiny of the online gaming industry. If legislators are serious about tackling this perceived problem, then the prevalence of betting in mainstream Australian culture needs to be examined closely as well.

Responsible Gaming for Bingo Players

When it comes to playing bingo online, it is easy to forget that bingo is also a forming of gambling. Responsible gaming means staying in control while having fun on your favourite sites. We asked the team of Online Bingo, casino and bingo review site to share with us their top tips for How to Bet Online and being a responsible player. Being a responsible player will ensure you enjoy your time more and keep your spending under control.

So how can you be more responsible?

Set Gaming Limits
Most reputable and trusted sites today make it easy for you to set daily, weekly and monthly deposit limits. Basically, you can limit yourself so that you never go over your comfort level. This might be $20 or £20 per week or $500 / £500. All up to you and how much you are comfortable with.

Account Cool Off
Sites that take responsible gaming seriously also make it easy for their players to request account cool off - this means, you can take a break from the site for a specific period of time. Once you request this, you won't be able to login to your account for the specified period.

Be Aware of Your Limits
For some, playing bingo becomes a problem and it's always good to keep these points in mind:

• Never gamble under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Do not play bingo to recover your losses or chase a particular pay off ... the house always win
• Never gamble if it interferes with your daily responsibilities to family, friends and work

Getting Further Help
Fortunately, there are communities and organisations that can also help if you find yourself in trouble or feel as if you're developing a problem with gambling.

• Excellent tip on how to protect yourself from playing online bingo
• Gamble Aware
• GamCare
• GamAid
• Gamblers Anonymous
• Gambling Therapy
• Google Family Safety - an excellent tool that helps you block sites

Hopefully you found the above tips valuable. check it out for more information about responsible gambling.

Are you gambling responsibly? Check your habits against this list.

Gambling is fun. There is a high and a thrill that comes with winning. And it is made so much better when you have experienced the low of losing. Legal gambling is more accessible than ever with the rise of online casinos. The key to make sure gambling stays fun is to do it in moderation. Here are a few pointers to keep you gambling in check. Establish these habits now and keep your online casino play the entertaining hobby it is meant to be.

Moderation is Key

• Check yourself – Are you gambling for fun? Be honest with yourself when answering this question. If you are gambling for a high or it’s not an impulse you can control you need to get accountability for your reasons for gambling.

• Set and Keep to your Limits – Set and stick to limits and controls you put on yourself to keep your casino time in check.

• Budget a specific amount of money per week to gamble with. Only spend that amount. For online gambling, get a separate bank card which it limited to that amount.

• Ask someone else to help you with managing your money. Another person can provide valuable accountability with how much you spend.

• When gambling give credit cards or other bank cards to someone you trust so you don’t overspend.

• Set up auto payments for your most important expenses so the money is automatically withdrawn and doesn’t give you a false sense of what it available.

If you have tried the above list and still struggle with keeping the money you spend on blackjack within limits it might be time to consider additional help. Look at the list below and see if gambling is getting out of control for you.

Signs of Gambling Addiction

1. Spending more money than you can afford when gambling online or traditionally.
2. Losing track of time or spending more time than you should on gambling.
3. Being unable to manage, limit or stop gambling.
4. Find yourself arguing with family, friends and loved ones about money and gambling.
5. Borrowing money from friends, family, loved ones or co-workers for gambling or to cover other expenses due to gambling.
6. Constantly thinking or talking about gambling.
7. Covering up, lying about or hiding your gambling habits from others.
8. Gambling to win back what you’ve lost or to get out of financial hardship.
9. Gambling until you have NO money left.
10. Selling stuff or not paying bills so you can gamble
11. Not feeling the high or excitement that used to come with gambling and need to make to stakes higher to achieve the same feeling.
12. Neglecting all the relationships in your life because you spend so much time gambling, thinking about gambling or finding money to gamble
13. Feeling anxiety, depression, worry, guilt or irritability regarding your life and gambling.

It doesn’t matter the game, roulette, blackjack, poker online casinos or traditional casinos, responsible gambling is the best way to have fun. Find where to play safe and responsible at a handy resource to discover trustable online gambling platforms.