Responsible Gambling in the US – Full Guide for 2024

How to Gamble Safely

Knowing that the casinos in the US generally only pay lip service to responsible gaming, the onus is on you to ensure you don't drift into the area of disorderly gambling behavior. For online gambling, there are a number of tools available - please use them.

These tools specifically help anyone to gamble responsibly. One of the most used is deposit limits. Players can choose an amount of money over which they can't top up their accounts. Self-exclusion is another option for players online. Once self-excluded you cannot gamble at a nominated casino. Here are a few tips to help you gamble responsibly

• Do not gamble with more money than you can afford to lose – This may seem glaringly obvious, but it should always be a strong consideration before gambling.
• Statistically, you are more likely to lose than to win – Yes, this is true. All casinos need losers, it’s their business model. Prepare to lose and any winnings are an unexpected bonus.
• Set a loss limit – It’s never a bad idea to decide before a gambling session how much you are prepared to happily lose. Choose an amount and stick with it.
• Quit gambling if it makes you experience any strong emotions – Any form of gambling will elicit a rush of excitement. Once stronger feelings such as anger or frustration are aroused, it is time to quit.

These simple common-sense tips should help you stay on the safe side, but you should still keep an eye on your gambling behavior. While there are tools available for online play, these are not as easily accessible at land-based venues. Such tips are there to make gambling safer, not to spoil your fun.

It is when this fun stops that you need to ask yourself whether your overall gambling behavior is becoming problematic. There are several signs that could help you identify a potential gambling addiction. It is important to seek help. We tackle some of these issues below.

How Can I Stop Gambling?

As gambling addiction is essentially a behavioral problem - changing that behavior is key. Seeking professional help and community support from people with similar problems will help. One simple idea which anyone should be able to put in place fairly rapidly is by focusing on three keys elements – Access, Time and Money. A handy mnemonic is ATM.

• Access

You should look to limit completely your access to the places you used to gamble. This can be a powerful course of action. For those with online gambling problems, blocking software can be effective. Apps like Gamban block all gambling-related websites on devices it is installed. Those who have problems at land-based casinos can request to be self-excluded.

• Time

Should you be able to severely restrict access to gambling sites and casinos, you will need to be able to deal with the extra time you will find you have. Managing this extra time effectively can help stop relapses. Aside from possible Gambler Anonymous meetings, gamblers should look at discovering new, or rediscovering old interests.

• Money

Simply put, if you have no money, you can't gamble. Many problem gamblers hand over all access to bank accounts to partners or parents. This may sound draconian, but it has been seen to be one of the most effective methods of stopping gambling. Not only do people lose access to money to gamble with, but it also adds an extra layer of accountability.

Online Gambling Sites and Their Tools for Safe Gaming

All licensed online gambling sites should offer several tools for responsible gambling. Remember, unlicensed casinos or sites licensed outside the US have no interest in helping players practice safer gambling. To be fair, licensed operators only offer these tools because it is a legal requirement and offers them a responsible gambling disclaimer.

Unfortunately, these tools are not used by as many players as would benefit. A New Jersey responsible gaming report suggests that they are used by less than 5% of players. In certain states, operators are legally bound to alert players who have at-risk tendencies. Here are the safe online gambling tools but you may still need to seek help if you are suffering from compulsive gambling.

• Time Out or Self-Exclusion – Players can choose a fixed time to not have access to a specific online gambling website. Once a fixed time has been set, it cannot be reversed.
• Deposit Limits – One simple technique for practicing responsible gambling is setting a deposit limit. Once set, a player cannot deposit more than the stipulated amount in a given time period.
• Time Management – Players can choose to be only allowed to gamble for a pre-agreed amount of time per day/week/month. This can mean players should be able to avoid long frustrating gambling sessions.
• Spending or Loss Limits – Similar to deposit limits, players can request spending or loss limits from their gambling account. Operators are legally bound to adhere to these requests. Not doing so could have serious license repercussions.

Land-Based Casinos and Their Responsible Gambling Policies

Land-based casinos have less tools at hand to help players practice responsible gaming. However, this does not mean they are not in a position to help their patrons. Most land-based casinos are bound by the terms of their licenses to provide responsible gambling education.

Many state regulators require the casinos to provide a responsible gambling policy or plan to get their license. The plan below outlines most of the methods the casinos use to provide responsible gambling.

• Training of employees – All floor staff will need to be trained in how to spot the signs of disorderly gambling. Any staff member having concerns can speak to a player or alert a supervisor.
• Signage – There are strict laws necessitating casinos to provide adequate signage alerting patrons to the dangers of gambling with advice and clear instructions.
• Advertising Limits – There is a strict code of conduct regarding advertising of land-based casinos in the US. Casinos cannot promise guaranteed wins or specific inducement to gamble.
• Limits on alcohol consumption – While alcohol and gambling are traditionally associated together. Staff are trained to ensure players are not able to place any bets when strongly under the influence of alcohol.
• Deposit, betting and credit limits - Some land-based venues will allow players to set spending limits at the tables. Others will either impose credit limits or not allow players to use credit to gamble.
• Treatment programs - Information must be provided to any at-risk gambler. Through the licensing arrangements casinos fund treatment centers for people suffering from gambling problems.

Who Can Help me with my Gambling Problem?

Pathological gamblers are able to access help both at a national and state level. Primary health care is available immediately through confidential phone lines and even through online chat services. State-based agencies and national associations are funded specifically to help players with problems.

We have listed some of the most contacted problem gambling agencies below and described what they do. Whoever you choose to contact, they will be able to tell you where to get help locally. These resources tend to be well-funded.

National Resources for Problem Gambling Help

Initial help and advice is always free. You can contact these associations confidentially (usually 24/7) to receive advice. To begin, you will be able to just talk to a trained professional. Some will be recovering addicts who can offer lived experience advice.

It is likely you will receive similar advice to the ATM described above. This very practical advice can immediately stop people gambling - one of the most important aspects of recovery. Some associations will be able to offer a Zoom meeting if a gambler request this.

Further advice will be given regarding finding resources in your local area. The concept of Gamblers Anonymous may be explained. There is more than one path to recovery from gambling addictions. All options can be discussed.

National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)is a nonprofit organization that aims to address problem gambling through education, advocacy, and support services. It provides resources and programs for gamblers, as well as for healthcare professionals and policymakers. The NCPG also works to increase public awareness of problem gambling and responsible gambling practices. Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous(GA)is a support group for individuals with a gambling problem. It is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous and follows a 12-step approach to recovery. Gamblers Anonymous (GA) meetings are free and confidential and provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and support each other in their journey towards recovery from problems with gambling.

Gam-Anon

Gam-Anon is a support group for the family and friends of individuals who have a gambling disorder. Similar to GA, Gam-Anon it is based on the 12-steps approach. It provides a supportive and safe space for friends and family members to discuss their lives coping with someone with gambling problems.

International Center for Responsible Gaming

The International Center for Responsible Gaming is a US-based, industry funded research body which studies the effect of problem gambling. Through high quality scientific study and evidence-based educational programming on compulsive gambling and responsible gaming, the International Center for Responsible Gaming aims to assist people and families affected by the disorder.

1-800-Gambler

1-800-Gambler is a national helpline in the United States for individuals struggling with problem gambling. The helpline provides free, confidential support and information 24/7, and connects callers to local resources for gambling disorder treatment and support. 1-800-Gambler also offers online resources and a chat service for individulas who prefer to seek help online.

GamTalk

GamTalk is an online support community for individuals affected by problem gambling, including those who gamble excessively, their families and friends. Based in Canada but available worldwide, GamTalk provides a safe and anonymous platform for individuals to share their experiences, receive support and connect with others who are going through similar struggles. The platform also offers online counselling services, a self-exclusion tool, and resources for responsible gambling.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) offers 24/7 call, text and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal thoughts from gambling addiction, substance use and mental health issues, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also dial 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

State Resources to Help You Gamble Safely

While there is nothing wrong with national agencies and helplines but for some people talking to someone from your own state can be more helpful. We have listed some of the most known state-by-state below. If you can't find a suitable one quickly, one of the national agencies above will be able to help.

There are several state agencies and organizations that can help you control your problem gambling habits. Many state health departments maintain their own resources to help problem gamblers.

They could help you connect with the appropriate therapists or groups, Sometimes, because of state funds set aside for programs, you may be able to receive therapy for free.

Kids and Gambling – How to Protect Them

Thanks to the safe nicotine delivery system of vaping, cigarette smoking among high school children has almost been eradicated. Unfortunately, there is no safe gambling product available which could have the same results. Child gambling remains a stubborn and worrying problem.

According to statistics kids may be more prone to gambling than to drinking, smoking or drugs. They appear less prepared to handle and understand the risks of gambling and it is worth parents preparing themselves. Below we offer a few tips that could help you talk to your child about the risks of gambling

• Learn as much as possible about online casino games and gambling – Games at online casinos do not look like they did many years ago. Advances in technology mean they often resemble video games in style. Always check what your kids are playing.
• Discuss the difference between skill-based games and gambling where the house always has an advantage – It is vital that everyone knows that casino games are random. There is no system, lucky numbers or superstitions that will effect the outcomes.
• Set a proper example by gambling responsibly – Either model good gambling behavior by gaming responsibly or better still, do not gamble at all. Kids learn so much from their parents – even the bad stuff.
• Children are exposed to gambling images every day – It’s difficult to control what kids see in the outside world but parents can control what they see at home on their devices. Use strong parental controls.
• Children under 18 often gamble on Scratch & Win tickets, poker and sports betting - Keeping a close eye on your children is rarely a bad thing. Note any specific interest in sports, particularly if they talk using betting terminology.
• Kids who say their parents have gambled in the past are most likely to engage in gambling activities - Maybe that horse has bolted. Modelling good behavior by not taking part in any gambling is a good thing to do. Maybe it's time to even stop buying lottery tickets.

Signs of Problem Gambling in Children

Any child, given the right external influences, can fall prey to gambling problems. Limiting those factors can help any child or young adult though the most important thing any parent can do is to have an open, honest discussion about gambling.

Card games are the most common gambling activity among high school students, with instant lotteries, skill-based games, sports betting, and bingo following closely behind.

Girls typically gamble less than boys do, but boys are proportionally more apt to have gambling issues. Boys prefer cards, sports betting, and skill-based games, whereas girls favor instant lotteries, cards, and bingo. Below are some of signs to look out for:

• Your child has friends who gamble regularly – Peer pressure is always worrying for parents. Be cautious of how your child’s friendship group can influence behavior.
• Your kid is often playing around with lottery tickets, cards or dice – Although this can sometimes just be curiosity, it’s worth noting if your child shows an unhealthy interest in these activities.
• Your child show an unnatural interest in the results of sporting events – Plenty of children are interested in sports and statistics. Pay attention if your child is becoming over obsessed especially in random sporting events they would not usually care about.
• Your child lies, avoids talking or is secretive about gambling activities – Unfortunately, compulsive gamblers are also skilled liars. Try and amass plenty of hard evidence before a confrontation.
• Your child borrows money from others to gamble or you notice that money or personal belongings go missing from the house – Parents should generally know how much access a child has to money and what it is spent on. Look for signs of money going missing, or your child becomes indebted to others.
• Kids who say their parents have gambled in the past are most likely to engage in gambling activities - Parents would do well to foresake all gambling activity until their children are grown up. Remember, even playing the lottery or scratch cards is exposing children to gambling.

Where to Seek Help

Children, just like adults, may need help to overcome their gambling problem. Any of these organizations can help both adults and children. Parents may need to be present when first making contact. Afterwards, these associations will know the best course of action to help your child.

Essentially, it is upon parents to watch for the signs of their child gambling. Early intervention can be key. For more information on this topic, parents can contact the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors.

Interesting Statistics About Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is a serious public health issue in the United States. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, an estimated 2-3% of adults in the US, or around 6-9 million people, meet the criteria for problem gambling.

According to recent research problem gambling is more prevalent among certain demographic groups. For example, men are more likely than women to experience gambling addiction, as are people with lower levels of education and income. Additionally, certain types of gambling, such as slot machines and online gambling, may be more strongly associated with problem gambling than others.

The economic costs of problem gambling are also significant. The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that problem gambling costs the US economy up to $7 billion annually in lost productivity, criminal justice costs, and other expenses.

Efforts to prevent and treat problem gambling have included public awareness campaigns, counseling and support services, and initiatives to promote responsible gambling practices. However, much more research is needed to better understand the causes and impacts of problem gambling, and to develop effective strategies for addressing this complex issue