Maintaining control over your gambling is crucial to preventing problem gambling. Practising responsible gambling not only reduces the risk of addiction but also makes for a safer and more enjoyable experience in the long run.
In this article, we’ll cover responsible gambling practices, how to recognise the signs of addiction, and steps you can take to stay in control. We’ll also share useful tips and details about organisations that can help if gambling starts to become a problem.
Signs of Gambling Addiction
Gambling can be just as addictive as alcohol or drug use. Recognising the early warning signs is key to taking action before things get out of hand.
Here are some common warning signs:
- Constantly thinking about gambling.
- Feeling restless or irritable when unable to gamble.
- Needing to place larger and larger bets to feel the same excitement.
- Lying to or letting down loved ones because of gambling.
- Lying about time or money spent gambling.
- Gambling to try and recover financial losses.
- Being unable to stop gambling, even when you’ve promised yourself you would.
- Taking financial risks to fund gambling.
Who is at Risk of Gambling Addiction?
Unfortunately, anyone can develop a gambling addiction. Losing control can impact your mental health, relationships, job, and finances. Some people are more susceptible than others, depending on factors such as psychological vulnerability, stress, or previous experiences.
Why is it difficult for some people to give up gambling?
Gambling triggers the same brain response as alcohol or drugs, activating the reward system. It creates a short-term sense of pleasure, which the brain remembers, making the gambler crave that feeling again. This cycle can make quitting hard, especially when cravings intensify.
Statistics on Gambling Addiction in New Zealand
Although there isn’t much recent official data for New Zealand, global estimates suggest that a significant number of people may struggle with gambling problems. In NZ, around 0.5%-1% of the population is estimated to have a gambling addiction, with an even higher percentage considered at risk.
Safeguards on NZFreeSpins.com
NZFreeSpins.com exclusively promotes licensed online casinos that comply with the strict regulations imposed by the NZGC of New Zealand. These regulations include protective measures for players, such as:
- Deposit limits: Players can set daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits to control spending.
- Self-exclusion: The option to self-exclude from gambling sites, either temporarily or permanently.
- Identity verification: Registration and identity verification through secure means, such as BankID, to prevent underage gaming and abusive behaviour.
Tips for Responsible Gambling
- Set a budget limit: Plan an amount you can afford to lose and keep it within this limit.
- Avoid gambling when you’re upset: Emotional states can influence gambling decisions and lead to unnecessary risks.
- Don’t gamble to recoup losses: This is a common pitfall that can worsen financial problems.
- Take regular breaks: continuous gaming can lead to losing control over time and money.
Organizations Offering Help in New Zealand
If you feel you need help, there are organizations and resources available to you:
- Responsible Gambling Association: Provides counselling and support for those affected by problem gambling.
- Alliance to Fight Gambling Addiction (ALID): a non-profit organization that supports people with gambling problems.
- Helplines: You can contact specialized helplines to discuss your problems confidentially.
Contact and Support
NZFreeSpins.com is dedicated to supporting a safe and responsible gaming environment. If you have any questions or need support, please get in touch with us. Erik, the founder of NZFreeSpins.com, is here to guide you and provide you with all the information you need for responsible gaming.
Information
NZFreeSpins.com is managed by Zamedia N.V., a company specializing in lead generation in the online gaming industry. Zamedia N.V. is registered in Curaçao and is based at Emancipatie Boulevard 32, Willemstad, Netherlands Antilles. The company is registered under company number 132496. For more information about Zamedia N.V., visit the company’s website at https://zamedia.org/.
Responsible gambling starts with you. Get informed, protect yourself, and play safely.
Useful links
- Ministry of Health NZ
- Gambling Helpline
- ResponsibleGambling.org
- GambleAware
- PGF NZ
- Safer Gambling Aotearoa