Play Responsibly, Play Safely

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 in advance how much money you are comfortable spending and do not exceed that amount.
• Set time limits. Decide how long each gaming session will last and stop when that time is reached.
• Never chase losses. Accepting a loss and stepping away is a sign of disciplined play.
• Avoid gambling under emotional stress. Decisions made during distress, anxiety, or low moods are rarely sound ones.
• Treat gambling as entertainment, not income. Online gambling is a leisure activity and should never be relied upon as a financial resource.
• Take regular breaks. Short pauses during a session help you stay aware of how much time and money you have spent.
• Keep track of your spending. Reviewing your transaction history periodically helps you stay within your financial limits.
• Do not borrow money to gamble. Playing only with funds you own prevents debt from accumulating.
• Balance gambling with other activities. Maintaining a varied routine ensures that gambling does not become the sole focus of your leisure time.
• Use platform tools. Deposit limits, session reminders, and self-exclusion features are available at licensed casinos and are there for your benefit.

Gambling addiction can develop gradually and is often difficult to identify in its early stages. Being aware of the following signs can help you or someone you care about seek timely support.

• Spending more money or time on gambling than originally intended
• Persistent thoughts about gambling throughout the day
• Attempting to recover losses by placing more bets
• Concealing gambling activity from family members or close friends
• Neglecting work, studies, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling
• Borrowing or misusing funds to finance gambling
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling as a way to escape problems or negative feelings
• Continued gambling despite negative financial or personal consequences

If you recognise several of these signs in yourself, speaking with a professional or reaching out to a support organisation is a positive and constructive step.

Online casino registration and participation in any form of real-money gambling are strictly restricted to individuals who have reached the legal age of majority. In India, this typically means players must be at least 18 years of age, though age requirements may vary depending on the applicable jurisdiction. Licensed platforms are required to verify the age and identity of every player during the registration process. If you are a parent or guardian, please take appropriate steps to restrict access to gambling websites on devices used by minors.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary tool offered by licensed online casinos that allows you to restrict your own access to a gambling account for a defined period. You can request a temporary suspension or a permanent closure of your account, depending on your personal circumstances. During the exclusion period, you will not be able to log in, deposit funds, or place bets. Most platforms process self-exclusion requests promptly to ensure you have immediate support when needed. If you feel that your gambling habits are no longer within your control, activating self-exclusion is a practical and responsible course of action. You can contact the customer support team of your chosen platform directly to initiate this process.

Professional help is available across India for individuals affected by gambling addiction. The organisations listed below offer confidential guidance, counselling, and treatment services.

• iCall (iCall Psychosocial Support): A helpline and counselling service run by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS). Reachable at 9152987821.
• Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: Provides 24-hour mental health support across India. Toll-free number: 1860-2662-345.
• NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences): A premier mental health institution in Bengaluru offering addiction treatment programmes. Contact: +91-80-46110007.
• Gamblers Anonymous India: A peer support fellowship for individuals who wish to stop gambling. Meetings and contact details are available through the official Gamblers Anonymous network.
• Parivarthan Counselling, Training and Research Centre: Based in Bengaluru, this organisation provides professional counselling services including addiction support. Helpline: +91-7676602602.
• Snehi India: Offers emotional support and mental health counselling. Helpline: +91-44-24640050.

Seeking help is a sign of strength. These organisations maintain strict confidentiality and are staffed by trained professionals who can provide appropriate support.