At Ubuntu Casino, we value the excitement and thrill that gambling brings. This pursuit of victory, the anticipation felt with every spin of the reel or deal of the cards — all of it creates unique moments of joy and satisfaction. However, alongside the pleasure of playing, we recognize the importance of a responsible approach to gambling.
Responsible gambling behavior means keeping the game as entertainment, not letting it become a problem. This involves setting and adhering to personal limits on bets and the time spent playing to avoid financial and emotional discomfort.
At Ubuntu Casino, we are here to support you in your endeavor to gamble responsibly. Therefore, we have gathered all the necessary information and resources for those facing difficulties related to gambling. Our goal is to help you enjoy your play while maintaining control and well-being.
Essential Tips for Responsible Gambling
- Set a strict budget and stick to it: Determine how much you are willing to spend and potentially lose on gambling each week or month based on your income and expenses. This budget should account for all your essential expenses, such as rent, food, utilities, and other necessities. Never reallocate funds intended for these purposes to gambling.
- Don’t chase your losses: Never attempt to win back lost money by increasing your bets. This can lead to even greater losses.
- Set both time and money limits: Before you start playing, decide how much time and money you’re willing to spend. Once you reach these limits, it’s time to stop. Use tools like deposit limits in online casinos and set alarms to keep track of your playtime.
- Take breaks: Take regular breaks from gambling to avoid losing control over time and money. If you find yourself spending too much time on gambling, consider taking a longer break.
- Gamble with a clear mind: Avoid gambling while under the influence of alcohol or other substances that can impair your judgment.
- Avoid gambling when in a bad mood: Never gamble when you’re angry, sad, or depressed. Gambling should not be used as a way to cope with emotional problems.
- Diversify your leisure activities: Ensure you have other interests and hobbies besides gambling. This helps prevent betting from becoming your only source of entertainment.
- Be aware of the risks: Always remember that the odds of winning in gambling are not always in your favor. Avoid using strategies that create the illusion of control over the game’s outcome, and play with the understanding that success is down to luck.
- Seek help if needed: If you’re struggling with gambling, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Many organizations offer support without judgment.
Signs of Problematic Gambling
Gambling can become a problem if it causes harm to you or those around you. It’s important to pay attention to the following signs:
- Constantly thinking about gambling, planning your day around it, and making excuses to gamble.
- The need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement as before.
- Unsuccessful attempts to stop or reduce the time and money spent on gambling.
- Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to lessen the dependency.
- Using gambling as a way to escape reality or alleviate negative emotions.
- Financial problems caused by spending on gambling activities.
- Losing interest in other hobbies and neglecting important relationships.
- Lying about your gambling activities or hiding them.
- Chasing losses and ignoring established financial limits.
- Borrowing money, stealing, or selling personal items to fund gambling.
- Experiencing physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop gambling.
How to Resolve Gambling Problems
Addressing problem gambling begins with recognizing the signs, often highlighted through a self-assessment test or, more crucially, when friends or family express concern. Ignoring their observations is not an option; immediate action is necessary.
Online Casino Tools
For those who choose real money gambling sites, several tools are available to foster responsible gambling. These include:
- Setting Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount that can be deposited to prevent spending beyond your means.
- Setting Loss Limits: Establish a cap on potential daily, weekly, or monthly losses to halt betting once reached.
- Taking a Break: Option to temporarily disable account access and betting on casino games.
- Getting Time Alerts: Notifications regarding the duration of playtime, with customizable frequency.
- Self Exclusion: For those deciding to permanently restrict access to certain casinos.
Professional Help
Professional help is readily available, with numerous organizations in South Africa offering free and confidential support. Recommended resources include:
- The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation: Offering toll-free assistance at 080 000 6008, with further resources at https://responsiblegambling.org.za
- Gamblers Anonymous SA: Providing regional support through hotlines in Gauteng (071 377 2746), KwaZulu-Natal (031 209 6359), and Western Cape (074 837 4001). Website: https://gamblersanonymous.org.za
- Recovery Direct: Specializes in providing comprehensive support for gambling addiction, featuring an array of therapy options to address the root causes of addiction. Learn more at recoverydirect.co.za/gambling-addiction-help/.
- Crossroads Recovery Centre: Offers personalized gambling addiction treatment in a supportive environment, helping individuals regain control over their lives. For more details, visit crossroadsrecovery.co.za/gambling-addiction/.
- The Cedars: A recovery center that provides a holistic approach to gambling addiction treatment, focusing on both the psychological and physical aspects of recovery. Check them out at thecedars.co.za.