Online gambling should be entertainment and a fun way to spend your time. However, there are times when it becomes more than that and the Fun Stops. Then it is time to take a break or consider quitting altogether.
We at KiwiBets promote responsible gambling. All the online casinos, and sports betting sites we partner with have the option to set deposit limits or self-exclude for a certain time-period or permanently.
We are not medical professionals, but we’ve gathered information about responsible gambling and gambling problem below. Have a look, reflect, and seek further help in case you think you need it!
How to gamble safely
GambleAware is the UK’s leading non-profit organization dedicated to educate on and fight against gambling-related harms. These seven pieces of advice will help you to make sure your gambling doesn’t start to have a negative impact on your life:
- Set a money limit in advance, and stick to it
- Walk away from your losses
- Treat gambling as an expense
- Set a time limit in advance
- Notice your feelings
- Keep other activities in the mix
- Take lots of breaks
- Be careful if you drink or do drugs
Protection of minors
International law forbids internet users under the age of 18 from accessing online betting games, in some cases other jurisdictions may also set a higher age threshold which could also be based on the type of gambling product being offered. We at KiwiBets partner only with reputable operators who take every possible measure to prevent minors from playing on their site. We also ensure that all advertising, sponsorship and promotional activity is not targeted at those under the age of 18 or the applicable higher age threshold applicable within the jurisdictions targeted. We strongly advise that you limit the amount of time any minors in your care spend on the internet, and install parental control software. If a minor can gain access to a computer which contains gambling software, we advise that you install the following access control software in order to restrict minors from accessing the software:
Sentry PC: www.sentrypc.com
How to install: https://www.sentrypc.com/support/install-3/
Signs of gambling problem
The definition of gambling problem, addiction or disorder varies in different countries and sources. American Psychiatric Association (APA) calls it gambling disorder and defines it as follows: “gambling disorder involves repeated gambling behaviour that causes significant problems or distress”.
Gambling problems may be caused by underlying stress linked to a difficult time in your life, whether this is related to work, relationships or financial issues. It can also be the result of someone having an addictive personality, prone to compulsive behaviour. The following may be more visible signs of a gambling problem in either yourself or someone you care about:
- Loss of control and being unable to manage impulsive urges to gamble, even when the odds are against you
- Problems within the workplace, which could include an increased workload, absence from work or general lack of concentration, which makes it difficult to complete tasks sufficiently
- A preoccupation with gambling and loss of interest in other hobbies or responsibilities
- Increasing the quantities gambled to recoup lost bets or to experience the same thrill
- A negative impact upon relationships with those closest to you
- Concealing the amount of money and time spent betting from family members
- Stealing money in order to gamble
- Denial that you have a problem
- You may also suffer from physical symptoms. These symptoms include anxiety, irritability, headaches, stomach upsets and stress-related symptoms
If you have felt or done any of the above, you might need to take control of your gambling. BeGambleAware has an anonymous online test you can try to get further indication of your gambling habits.
Where to find help
The Gambling Helpline New Zealand can be reached from 0800 654 655. It is available 24/7 and you can reach them via text on 8006 as well. More information and further contact details can be found here.