Responsible Gaming

Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose. Set limits on time and money, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, stop playing.

Age Verification

You must be of legal gambling age to participate. In India, the legal age is generally 18+, but some states and territories require a higher age (e.g., 21+ for certain casino activities). Always verify the legal gambling age in your specific state or union territory before playing. Underage gambling is illegal and harmful.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can affect anyone. Ask yourself if you have experienced any of the following:

• Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have lost
• Hiding your gambling activity from family or friends
• Spending more money or time on gambling than you intended
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other problems
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
• Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Lying about how much you gamble
• Feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed after gambling
• Being unable to stop or cut back despite wanting to
• Gambling until your last rupee is gone

Self-Help Tools

Many reputable gambling platforms offer tools to help you stay in control. Use them proactively:

• Deposit limits – set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month
• Loss limits – cap the amount you are willing to lose in a given period
• Reality checks – receive reminders of how long you have been playing
• Self-exclusion – block yourself from accessing your account for a set period or permanently
• Cooling-off periods – take a short break from gambling

If the platform you use does not offer these tools, consider that a red flag and look for safer alternatives.

Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Reach out to a support organization. The following are real, reputable resources:

• India – Gamblers Anonymous India: www.gamblersanonymous.org.in
• UK – GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk
• UK – GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk
• Australia – Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Canada – Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
• US – National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
• Germany – Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): www.bzga.de
• Other countries – search online for your national gambling helpline or visit Gamblers Anonymous International.

International organizations may be based outside India but often provide online resources and self-assessment tools that are accessible worldwide.

Call to Action

If you recognise any warning signs in yourself or a loved one, please seek help today. Problem gambling is a serious condition, but it is treatable. Contact one of the organizations above, speak to a trusted friend or family member, or consult a mental health professional. Remember: you are not alone, and help is available.