Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds are always in favour of the house, and losses are a real possibility every time you play.

At drhardy.org, we encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means. If you find yourself struggling with your gambling habits, please reach out for support immediately.

Age Verification

In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gambling activities. This is a legal requirement under Australian gambling legislation.

If you are under 18, please do not attempt to access gambling services. Online casinos operating legally in Australia have strict age verification procedures in place to protect minors.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time and money spent gambling
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Feeling the need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Being unable to stop or control gambling, despite wanting to
• Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or anxiety when not gambling
• Neglecting relationships, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from stress, depression, or other problems

Self-Help Tools & Features

Most responsible online casinos provide tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit in a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Limit the amount of money you're prepared to lose during a gambling session
• Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play showing how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
• Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gambling sessions
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling websites
• Account Closure: Permanently close your gambling account if needed

Make use of these tools proactively. They're designed to help you stay in control and gamble within your limits.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are organisations that can provide confidential support:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support service
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
• Gambler's Help — Victorian gambling support service
  Phone: 1800 858 858

United Kingdom

• GamCare — Free problem gambling support
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling — Confidential helpline
  www.ncpgambling.org
  Phone: 1-800-522-4700

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Federal Centre for Health Education
  Resources and support for problem gambling

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

There is no shame in seeking help for problem gambling. Millions of people around the world have struggled with gambling, and with proper support, recovery is possible.

If you recognise problem gambling in yourself or someone you care about, please contact one of the organisations listed above immediately. They provide free, confidential support and can connect you with professional help.

Remember: gambling should be fun. If it's causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, it's time to take action.