Play Smart, Stay in Control

Responsible gaming is about making informed choices and maintaining control over your habits. The following strategies can help you enjoy online gaming in a balanced and healthy way.

• Set a budget before you play. Decide in advance how much you are comfortable spending, and do not exceed that amount under any circumstances.
• Use deposit limits. Most licensed platforms allow you to cap how much you deposit daily, weekly, or monthly. Activate these limits to reinforce your budget.
• Set a time limit. Decide how long each session will last before you begin. Use alarms or timers to keep yourself accountable.
• Treat losses as the cost of entertainment. Funds spent on gaming should be viewed the same way as money spent on any leisure activity, not as an investment.
• Never chase losses. If you lose, accept it and step away. Attempting to win back lost money often leads to further losses.
• Avoid gaming under the influence. Alcohol or other substances impair judgement and can lead to impulsive decisions.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from the screen at regular intervals during a session to maintain a clear head.
• Keep gaming separate from daily responsibilities. Never let gaming interfere with work, family time, or financial obligations.
• Use the platform’s responsible gaming tools. Self-exclusion options, reality checks, and session reminders are available on most licensed sites. Use them proactively.
• Talk to someone you trust. If you feel your gaming habits are becoming difficult to manage, speak openly with a friend, family member, or professional.

Gambling addiction can develop gradually, and it is not always easy to identify. Being aware of the warning signs can help you or someone you care about seek support at the right time.

• Spending more money on gambling than originally intended, consistently.
• Borrowing money or selling personal belongings to fund gambling.
• Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when not gambling.
• Lying to family members or friends about the frequency or amount of gambling.
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling despite wanting to do so.
• Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities due to gambling.
• Continuing to gamble even after significant financial losses.
• Using gambling as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional difficulties.
• Losing interest in hobbies or social activities that were previously enjoyed.
• Experiencing mood swings, depression, or anxiety connected to gambling outcomes.

Online casino registration and participation in any form of real-money gaming are restricted to individuals who have reached the legal age of majority. Players are required to verify their age during the registration process, and platforms are obligated to enforce this requirement at all stages. Underage gaming is not permitted under any circumstances, and any accounts found to belong to minors will be closed immediately. If you are a parent or guardian, please consider using parental control tools to prevent minors from accessing online gaming platforms.

Licensed online casinos provide voluntary self-exclusion options for players who feel their gaming habits are becoming difficult to manage. This tool allows you to temporarily or permanently block access to your account, giving you the space needed to regain control. Self-exclusion periods can range from a few days to several years, depending on the platform and your personal needs. Once activated, the exclusion is typically enforced immediately, and you will not be able to reverse it until the chosen period has ended. You can request self-exclusion by contacting the platform’s customer support team or accessing the responsible gaming section of your account settings. This is a confidential process, and your decision to use it will be respected without question.

Help is available if you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling-related issues. Reaching out to a professional or a support organisation is a positive and courageous step. The following organisations in India can provide guidance, counselling, and assistance.

• iCall (iCall Psychosocial Support): A mental health initiative by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai, offering professional counselling services. Contact: +91-9152987821. Website: icallhelpline.org
• Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: A 24-hour mental health helpline offering free support in multiple Indian languages. Contact: 1860-2662-345 or 1800-2333-330.
• The Live Love Laugh Foundation: A mental health awareness organisation founded by Deepika Padukone, providing resources and referrals for those seeking psychological support. Website: thelivelovelaughfoundation.org
• Aasra: A crisis intervention centre offering support for individuals in emotional distress. Contact: +91-22-27546669. Website: aasra.info
• Gamblers Anonymous India: A fellowship of individuals who share their experience and support one another in recovering from gambling problems. Website: gamblersanonymous.org
• National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru: A premier mental health institution offering outpatient and inpatient services for addiction-related concerns. Website: nimhans.ac.in