Responsible Gaming

Responsible gaming begins with informed choices and consistent habits. The following strategies can help you maintain control over your gambling activity.

• Set a budget before you play. Decide on a fixed amount you are comfortable spending and do not exceed it.
• Track your time. Use a timer or platform tools to monitor how long each session lasts.
• Use deposit limits. Most licensed platforms allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from the screen at intervals to maintain perspective.
• Avoid chasing losses. Accept losses as a natural part of gambling and do not attempt to recover them through additional play.
• Play for entertainment, not income. Gambling is not a reliable source of financial gain.
• Keep gambling separate from your personal or professional life. Do not let it interfere with your responsibilities.
• Never gamble under the influence of alcohol or stress. Impaired judgement increases risk.
• Review your gambling history periodically. Most platforms provide account statements that can help you stay aware of your spending patterns.
• Use self-assessment tools. Many platforms offer questionnaires to help you evaluate your relationship with gambling.

Gambling addiction can develop gradually and may be difficult to identify without awareness. The signs below are commonly associated with problematic gambling behaviour.

• Spending more money on gambling than originally intended
• Difficulty stopping or reducing gambling activity despite wanting to
• Continuing to gamble even after significant financial losses
• Neglecting work, family, or social obligations because of gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Feeling restless, anxious, or irritable when not gambling
• Using gambling as a way to cope with stress, loneliness, or negative emotions
• Concealing gambling activity from family members or close friends
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Placing increasingly larger bets to achieve the same level of excitement

If you identify with one or more of these signs, seeking support at an early stage can make a significant difference.

All online casino platforms are legally required to restrict access to individuals who have reached the age of majority. In India, this is generally accepted as 18 years of age, though specific regulations may vary by state. Registration, account creation, and participation in any form of real money play are permitted only for verified adult users. If you are aware of a minor attempting to access gambling services, you are encouraged to report this to the relevant platform immediately.

Licensed online casinos provide voluntary self-exclusion programmes for players who feel they need to limit or pause their gambling activity. Through self-exclusion, you can request that your account be temporarily suspended or permanently closed, depending on your preference. This option is available directly through the casino’s responsible gaming settings or by contacting customer support. During the exclusion period, you will not be able to log in, deposit funds, or participate in any games on that platform. Some platforms also offer cooling-off periods and session limits as less restrictive alternatives. If you believe self-exclusion is the right step for you, do not hesitate to initiate it. Your request will be processed with confidentiality and without judgement.

Professional help is available for individuals in India who are affected by gambling addiction. The organisations listed below offer confidential support, counselling, and guidance.

• iCall (iCall Psychosocial Helpline): A mental health helpline run by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) that provides counselling services, including support for behavioural addictions. Contact: +91-9152987821
• Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: A 24/7 mental health helpline offering free support for individuals experiencing addiction or related psychological distress. Contact: 1860-2662-345
• NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences): A premier institution in Bengaluru providing clinical assessment and treatment for addiction disorders. Website: nimhans.ac.in
• Alcoholics Anonymous India (AA India): Although primarily focused on alcohol, AA India also provides peer support networks that extend to behavioural addictions including gambling. Website: aaindia.org
• Snehi Foundation: A voluntary organisation offering emotional support and crisis intervention for individuals in distress, including those affected by addiction. Contact: +91-44-24640050
• Parivarthan Counselling, Training and Research Centre: Based in Bengaluru, this organisation provides professional counselling services for a range of mental health and addiction concerns. Contact: +91-7676602602

Seeking help is a sign of awareness and strength. Support is available, and you do not have to navigate this alone.