Gambling provides entertainment for those interested in sports betting, casino gaming, daily fantasy sports, the lottery and more. Legal gambling activities never have been easier to access, and it’s important to participate responsibly.

Below, we walk you through the ins and outs of responsible gambling. We also touch on problem gambling and provide contact information for individuals seeking gambling addiction resources.

What is responsible gambling?

The goal of responsible gambling is to prevent the development of a gambling addiction. If you don’t practice responsible gambling, betting can have negative effects on your personal life, career and family.

Gambling strictly should serve as a fun, social activity. When players keep their gambling habits within those descriptors, they’re practicing responsible gambling.

How to gamble responsibly

Problem gambling affects people of every age group, gender and race. If you’re actively battling a gambling addiction or feel you’re developing negative habits in the future, refer to this list to try and get back on the right track:

• Stop gambling if you’re not enjoying it.
• Understand the game you’re playing before you wager. The internet has many helpful resources that teach you how to play.
• Never gamble with money you can’t afford to lose and don’t borrow money to gamble.
• Set a limit on how much you can afford to lose and hold yourself accountable.
• Keep a clear mind while you gamble. Betting while stressed, anxious or intoxicated can lead to poor decision-making.
• Don’t “chase” your losses and bet more. Following up a lost $100 bet with a $200 wager isn’t a sound strategy to recoup your funds.

Responsible gambling recommendations for providers

Gambling providers play a crucial role in maintaining responsible gambling. Operators always should promote responsible gambling and provide access to resources for those seeking help.

Here are some things providers can do to keep players safe:

• Offer self-exclusion lists for players who no longer wish to participate. Features that limit the time and amount of money a player can spend is a must.
• Clearly list the rules and odds for a gambling activity. Players should know exactly what they’re wagering on.
• Never use advertisements or social media posts to make light of problem gambling.
• Train employees at in-person gambling facilities to recognize and prevent problem gambling. Individuals who are intoxicated should also be cut off from gambling activities.

How to determine if you have a gambling problem

The National Council on Problem Gambling defines the term “problem gambling” as gambling behaviors that damage an individual or their family, disrupting their life and career. Problem gambling is a recognized mental health diagnosis that can impact anyone who bets.

Major financial loss and legal trouble are obvious indicators of problem gambling. However, there are other traits to watch out for.

Below are some signs of a gambling addiction. Think of yourself, a friend or a family member as you read the list. If the descriptors fit, consider contacting the problem gambling resources listed further down this page:

• Constantly thinking about gambling and feeling the urge to increase the amount you wager.
• “Chasing” your losses.
• Frequently adding money to your online gambling account or trying to borrow money to spend on betting.
• Prioritizing gambling funds over essential expenditures like utility or grocery bills.
• Missing work or school and seeing your performance decline in either area.
• Losing quality relationships due to gambling habits.
• Putting personal health or hygiene to the side to focus on gambling.
• Escaping other problems by focusing on gambling.
• Realizing the negative effects of gambling but continuing to participate.
• Failing to quit gambling because you feel restless or irritable.

National problem gambling resources

Admitting you or a loved one has a gambling problem is a difficult step on the road to recovery. Luckily, many prominent resources are available once you complete that crucial step.

Here are some of the well-known resources you should contact if you’re seeking help:

National Council on Problem Gambling

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) offers resources like certified counseling, treatment strategies, peer support and a problem gambling self-assessment.

The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) is available via phone call or text and remains open 24/7 on every day of the year.

For resources available in Massachusetts, click the “Menu” button on the NCPG home page. Then, go to the “Help by State” section and find Massachusetts on the map.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) describes itself as a fellowship of men and women who share experiences, strength and hope to help solve a common problem and help others recover.

No matter which stage of recovery you’re in, GA is an excellent choice. GA’s Massachusetts hotline number is 855-2CALLGA (855-222-5542).

Find local, weekly meetings by clicking the “U.S. Meetings” tab on the home screen.

Gam-Anon

If you’re looking to help a friend or family member, Gam-Anon is the resource for you. Go to Gam-Anon’s website to find local counseling, mental health professionals and peer support.

Gam-Anon also offers literature, sponsorship, service and more. Virtual meetings in multiple languages are available via Zoom. Meetings focus on specific areas such as newcomer meetings, Gam-A-Teen, adult children of compulsive gamblers and more.

Get in touch by calling 718-352-1671. You can also email [email protected].

GamTalk

GamTalk is the go-to for those looking to remain anonymous and get help from the comfort of home. GamTalk provides online forums, chat rooms, stories of hope and a community wall.

Support is also available for friends and families of problem gamblers. Click the “Treatment & Support” tab to find organizations and contact information in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts problem gambling resources

If you prefer to find problem gambling help from organizations based in Massachusetts, consider these options:

Office of Problem Gambling Services

The Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS) is a state-funded program created in response to gambling expansion. The OPGS uses data to inform initiatives, engage with members of the community and provide problem gambling education.

A component of the OPGS is the Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline (800-327-5050). Trained specialists are available 24/7 to help individuals connect with treatment centers and resources.

The OPGS and Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline provide support in multiple languages.

The Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health

The Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health (MACGH) is a statewide nonprofit public health agency that offers free and confidential services at all hours of the day. Prevention and recovery programs, as well as training and education, are available.

The MACGH also works with gaming operators, vendors, regulators, clinicians and other community-based agencies to promote responsible gambling.

You can reach the MACGH by calling 800-426-1234. Live chatting is another option if you click the “Chat now” button on the MACGH home screen.

Make responsible gambling a top priority

Legal gambling options will continue to expand, making access even easier as time goes on. Immediately seek help if you or someone you know has a gambling addiction or shows symptoms.

Problem gambling doesn’t just impact a bettor. Families and friends are also affected, and treatment is available through the resources listed above.