01 / Plan ahead
Set limits you can afford
Decide in advance how much time and money you can comfortably spend on entertainment. Treat that money as spent, not as something you expect to win back. Protect essentials such as rent, food, bills and savings; never use credit, borrowed money or money intended for someone else to gamble.
- Choose a fixed budget and stop when it is gone.
- Set a time limit and take regular breaks.
- Do not gamble when upset, under the influence or trying to recover losses.
- Keep gambling separate from work, family responsibilities and financial decisions.
02 / Notice changes
Warning signs to take seriously
It may be time to pause and seek support if you find yourself spending more time or money than planned, hiding gambling, borrowing to continue, chasing losses, feeling anxious when you cannot play, or experiencing conflict at home or work because of gambling. One sign is enough reason to take a break and talk to someone you trust.
03 / Use available tools
Pause, limit or exclude
Look for the operator’s current safer-gambling settings, which may include deposit or loss limits, session reminders, time-outs and self-exclusion. Names, availability and how changes take effect depend on the operator and jurisdiction. Read the terms of each tool and contact customer support if you cannot locate the controls.
If you need a stronger boundary, consider blocking gambling websites or payment transactions through tools available in your region, and ask a trusted person to help you follow through.
04 / Find support
Ask for help early
Support is available even if you are unsure whether gambling has become a problem. Speak with someone you trust and look for a recognised gambling-support service or healthcare professional in your country. Because services and crisis contacts vary by location, use a local health service, government directory or reputable support organisation to find the right contact for you.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency service. If financial harm is involved, consider contacting a qualified local debt-advice service.