Responsible Gambling
At irishcasinolist.ie, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling and player protection in Ireland. We believe that gambling should be an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems.
Understanding Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling means making informed decisions about gambling activities and maintaining control over the time and money you spend. It involves understanding the risks, setting limits, and knowing when to stop. Gambling should never interfere with your responsibilities, relationships, or financial stability.
Signs of Problem Gambling
It's important to recognise the warning signs of problem gambling. You may have a gambling problem if you:
- Spend more time or money gambling than you can afford
- Feel the need to bet more money to get the same excitement
- Try to win back losses by gambling more (chasing losses)
- Lie to family or friends about your gambling activities
- Feel restless or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling
- Use gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve anxiety
- Neglect work, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrow money or sell possessions to fund gambling
- Feel guilty or depressed about your gambling
- Have unsuccessful attempts to control or stop gambling
Setting Limits and Staying in Control
Before you start gambling, it's essential to set clear limits:
- Time limits: Decide how much time you will spend gambling and stick to it
- Money limits: Only gamble with money you can afford to lose - never with rent, bills, or food money
- Loss limits: Set a maximum amount you're prepared to lose and stop when you reach it
- Win limits: Decide when you'll walk away with winnings
- Never chase losses: Accept losses as part of the game and never try to win back money by gambling more
- Take regular breaks: Step away from gambling regularly to maintain perspective
- Don't gamble when emotional: Avoid gambling when upset, depressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Help and Support in Ireland
If you're concerned about your gambling or someone else's, help is available. The following Irish organisations provide free, confidential support:
Gambling Ireland
Ireland's leading organisation providing support for those affected by gambling problems.
- Website: www.gamblingireland.ie
- Helpline: 089 241 5401 (confidential support)
- Email: info@gamblingireland.ie
Samaritans Ireland
Provides emotional support for anyone in distress or struggling to cope.
- Website: samaritans.org/ireland
- Helpline: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- Email: jo@samaritans.ie
Gambling Therapy
Global service offering free, confidential support for people with gambling problems.
- Website: www.gamblingtherapy.org
- Online counselling: Free, confidential support
- Support groups: Online and local meetings
Mental Health Ireland
Provides mental health support and resources across Ireland.
- Website: mentalhealthireland.ie
- Information Line: 01 284 1166
- Support groups: Available in local communities
Self-Exclusion and Blocking Options
If you need to take a break from gambling, several options are available:
- Individual casino exclusion: Contact customer support at any gambling site to self-exclude
- Payment blocking: Contact your Irish bank to block gambling transactions
- Software solutions: Use apps like Gamban or Betblocker to block access to gambling sites
- Browser blocking: Install browser extensions that block gambling websites
For Friends and Family
If someone you care about has a gambling problem:
- Approach the conversation with compassion and without judgment
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Don't lend money or bail them out of gambling debts
- Take care of your own wellbeing and seek support if needed
- Consider attending support groups for families affected by gambling
Financial Support and Advice in Ireland
If gambling has caused financial difficulties, help is available:
- Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS): Free debt advice - www.mabs.ie
- Citizens Information: Free information and advocacy - citizensinformation.ie
- St. Vincent de Paul: Financial and practical assistance - www.svp.ie
Irish Gambling Regulation
Ireland is developing comprehensive gambling regulation through the Gambling Regulation Bill. We are committed to providing information only about reputable operators and promoting compliance with emerging Irish gambling laws and regulations.
Remember
Gambling should be fun, not a way to make money. If gambling is no longer enjoyable or is causing problems in your life, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support, and recovery is possible with the right help and commitment.
Last updated: January 2025