What is Responsible Gambling?
Gambling is a pleasurable activity.
So pleasurable that it has become a multibillion dollar entertainment industry. But as is the case with some other pleasurable activities, there is the risk that we can become addicted to the pleasurable feelings produced. Being aware that there are risks and that we can become unbalanced is a necessity when it comes to gambling and that’s where Responsible Gambling comes into play. But before we move on to talk about how to safeguard ourselves and create balance in our gambling activity let’s take a closer look into our minds and how our response to pleasure can get us into trouble.
The neuroscientific studies on addiction say that pleasure experienced when gambling is actually based upon a manipulation of deep-rooted physical instincts. And part of what this means is that gambling is not simply intellectual but an overwhelmingly physiological experience. The theory addressing this experience tells us that the pleasure apparently derived from gambling is actually derived from an automatic physical state triggered by risk-taking behaviors.
This may seem and may actually be odd, but it is not uncommon.
A lot of modern entertainment and experiences, including gambling, are openly based on manipulating and maximizing the pleasure of natural impulses. Bungee jumping, roller-coasters, and even scary movies all tend to purposely produce a thrilling rush of natural energy in the body. Ultimately this biological basis is the basis of pleasurable activities and the industries founded upon them. Acknowledging this biological basis also sheds light on why the pleasure of gambling can be so intense and problematic for some people. The power of the pleasure we experience is a visceral part of human nature—so it feels really good.
And we all want to feel good.
And because this desire to feel good is so deeply rooted in our being, the desire for pleasure can overpower self-control. This is why Responsible Gambling must always be an important part of the gambling culture.
So what is Responsible Gambling?
Essentially, Responsible Gambling is the use of attitudes and practices which help prevent or address Problem Gambling. The formal practices involved in Responsible Gambling are guidelines based on an informed understanding of the potential harm for individuals and communities. Of course, it is the individuals and industry participating in the process which ultimately bring the “Responsible” in Responsible Gambling to life.
10 Rules of Responsible Gambling
- If you choose to gamble, do so for entertainment purposes. If your gambling is no longer an enjoyable activity then ask yourself why you’re still “playing.”
- Treat the money you lose as the cost of your entertainment. Treat any winnings as a bonus.
- Set a dollar limit and stick to it. Do not change your mind after losing.
- Decide how much of your time you want to allow for gambling. Leave when you reach the time limit whether you are winning or losing.
- Expect to lose. The odds are that you will lose.
- Do not borrow money to gamble.
- Gambling should not interfere with or substitute for friends, family, work or other worthwhile activities.
- Avoid “chasing” lost money. Chances are the more you try to recoup your losses the larger your losses will be.
- Don’t gamble as a way to cope with emotional or physical pain.
- Become educated about the warning signs of problem gambling. The more you know, the better choices you can make.
Here is a simple example of Responsible Gambling:
- A guest at a casino expressed deep concern about their gambling habits.
- An associate from the Casino shared my professional info with the guest.
- The mentioned guest called me.
- We spoke for a little less than 10 minutes.
- She attended an appointment for Help.
- She said thank you for the simple action which works as an ideal model for Responsible Gambling.
Offering appropriate help when a gambler expresses serious concern about their gambling habits is the caring and responsible thing to do. So don’t hesitate to reach out, there are people who care and can get you connected.
And if you are just starting to question whether or not your pleasurable gambling activities are becoming unbalanced check in with the Responsible Gambling practices we’ve outline here and call us anytime if you need more information or support!