We want everyone to have fun when using any of the links on this website, we are aware that in some cases gambling can be a problem. Therefore we have put this page together to give anyone that may develop a problem an idea of how to recognise a problem exists, or even better, avoid a problem developing as well as information on where they can get help.

What is gambling - Back to Top

When someone says "gambling," you probably think of a casino. But the truth is, you can gamble almost anywhere — a racetrack, a grocery store, a parking lot or a friend's house. If you bet something in hopes of winning something, you're gambling, no matter where you are.

Roll, spin, shuffle or scratch. It's all gambling:

• Casino games
• Bingo
• Video poker
• Poker games
• Lottery tickets
• Numbers
• Dice
• Online gambling
• Office pools
• Racetracks
• Sports betting
• Tonk
• Scratch Cards
• Anything you bet on, where there is an element of chance - no matter how small you perceive that chance to be.
  

Whatever your game, have fun. But remember, you don't have to be in a casino to get in over your head.

Be Self Aware - Back to Top

Whilst the majority of people do gamble responsibly, for some, gambling can become a problem. It may help you to keep control by remembering the following:

• Please try and establish limits for purchasing, wagering and losses before you commence gambling.
  
• Gambling is not advised if it interferes with your daily responsibilities.
  
• Gambling is not advised if you are in recovery for any dependency or are under the influence of alcohol or any other substance.
  
• Gambling is not advised if your primary aim to recoup losses.
• Gambling is not advised if you NEED to win

I Know Someone with a Problem - Back to Top

Are you concerned about someone close to you may have a problem with gambling? Organisations that offer support to people that develop gambling problems will also offer support to close friends and relatives (See Getting Further Help).

Here are a few tell tale signs that someone may be developing a problem with gambling, this list is by no means an exustive list, and does not indicate there isn't a problem if none of these situations are evident

• Request for help from gambler
• Admission by gambler that he or she spends too much money on gambling
• Gambler saying that they spend too much time gambling and cannot keep away
• Gambling is viewed as a real opportunity to make money
• Persuading friends to gamble against their will
• Spending a lot of time alone gambling
• Frequenting amusement arcades, betting shops, race tracks, or casinos several times a week.
• Excessive use of Internet casinos and gambling sites
• Spending more than they can afford on the Lottery
• Committing crime to fund gambling or t