In general, gambling (iGaming, betting) is becoming increasingly popular around the world and is currently experiencing a boom in New Jersey. The industry is growing inexorably year after year. Since the dawn of the digital modern age, we have been able to indulge in virtual gaming beyond the casinos of Nevada, online, from the comfort of our mobile devices. However, accessible iGaming also increases the number of people who become addicted and lose control. Research from the National Center for Responsible Gambling reveals that approximately 1 in 100 adults in the United States engage in dangerous gaming behavior. Beyond 2 million gamblers in the U.S. are believed to be struggling with fatal gambling addiction problems.
The number of those affected will continue to grow. To counteract this situation, we must focus on responsible gambling in the long term. Gambling addiction not only harms those influenced. The environment of affected gamblers is also directly affected. Friends and relatives are indirectly altered by iGaming addiction in many areas of life.
There are many ways to counteract gambling addiction. If your own behavior in the online casino is no longer sustainable and enormous sums are gambled away, or you know someone who suffers from this kind of addiction, be sure to read on. This article deals with gambling addiction in detail and reveals various measures to break out of the vicious circle.
To understand the substance of responsible gambling, various principles need to be clarified. The focus is not only on affected gamblers but also on iGaming providers. Both parties and their starting position are essential for sustainable gambling without negative effects. The prevailing policy and legal situation play an important role. Both the operators of iGaming portals and players should strive to ensure that online casinos are considered a form of entertainment in the first instance. Smooth operations, transparent terms, and fair conditions are considered the quintessence of gambling with responsibility. In the collective interest of the existence of legal gambling, it should be ensured that clients of gaming platforms do not end up in dangerous social or financial situations.
Reputable providers of any kind of online gaming bear a large part of the responsibility when it comes to preventing gambling addiction. Of course, personal responsibility for the respective gamer is also considered essential. Compliance with the applicable laws for the operators is mandatory.
Gaming platforms bear just as much responsibility as the players themselves when it comes to the development of gaming addiction. Fraud, money laundering, identity theft, and other dangerous scenarios must be prevented in every possible way.
There are also technical challenges to overcome. On any casino portal, for example, customers should only be allowed to hold one account. For this purpose, verification and sustainable control of personal information after opening the account is mandatory. Reputable operators must guarantee to adhere to data protection. In this way, the security of customers’ data and funds is established in the best possible way. The complete arsenal of games offered should be verified by neutral institutions. Any manipulation of the technical processes of slot machines and table games must be prevented. In addition, the iGaming operators are obliged to pay taxes to the government and to fulfil other state requirements.
Misleading and manipulative advertising for online casino offers can cause dramatic disadvantages for people. For this reason, specific regulations have been adopted to provide clear information about the offers of casinos. It is not in the interest of Internet casinos to court players who suffer from online casino addiction or sink into debt. The sustainable goal is to attract users who frequent the platform regularly and enjoy their time there in a relaxed and non-coercive manner. Ultimately, it is in their interest to prevent people with gambling problems from accessing their platform.
Enlightened and aware gamblers who want to interact safely and sustainably in the casino should constantly keep in mind that gambling is associated with certain dangers. This type of gambling should therefore take place in a trustworthy and safe environment. The first priority there should be mental health to prevent problematic behavior at all costs. Games of chance are purely for entertainment and should provide a good time. The games should be challenging, enriching, and interesting – without negatively affecting personal life. When emotions get the better of you and adrenaline surges, you may be at risk of losing large amounts of money. Consider the following facts:
Gambling addiction is often not apparent at first glance. Physical symptoms are less well known, which makes diagnosis more difficult. We have researched and summarized the most important accompanying symptoms of uncontrolled gambling and gambling addiction:
Responsible gambling is a viable practice for many players, but some are in need of help beyond that. Some people can lose touch with reality, become trapped in debt and lose touch with their lives. Seeking help for gambling concerns is not a bad thing. There are many support services available in the state of New Jersey, ranging from basic care to voluntary self-exclusion programs. These resources can help you to manage any gambling addiction and to regain control of your life.
The following entities can be consulted by you or your loved ones:
CCGNJ can be reached through their 24/7 hotline at 1-800-Gambler, which offers complimentary and private guidance and support. Text assistance is also available at this number. Additionally, their website, 800gambler.org, provides live chat support and details about weekly teleconferences for self-help gatherings.
CCGNJ continuously updates its directory of both publicly funded and private health providers specializing in treating gambling-related mental health issues. This includes statewide Gamblers Anonymous meetings, inpatient and outpatient facilities, private therapy providers, and various transitional programs aimed at aiding those with gambling addiction.
Contact Information:
3635 Quakerbridge Rd., Suite 7
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Phone: 609.588.5515
Fax: 609.588.5665
Help Line: 1.800.GAMBLER (246.2537)
As a nationwide organization, Gamblers Anonymous extends confidential support to those struggling with gambling addiction. A national hotline is available, and the New Jersey office can be reached at 1-855-222-5542. On their website, you can find a searchable map and a list of Gamblers Anonymous self-help meetings throughout the area.
The Division of Gaming Enforcement provides the Self-Exclusion Scheme. It is for those with concerns about problem gambling behavior. It is intended for those who are not ready to apply for a full self-exclusion. Players can apply to have their credit privileges suspended. This request will be made in person to the Gaming Control Department at the casino. It restricts the ability to borrow to gamble or bet. The effect of this is the sustainable prevention of the accumulation of debts.
To apply for the self-exclusion program, there are four ways to apply. The DGE website provides up-to-date contact information for New Jersey residents. You must complete a self-exclusion form to apply for self-exclusion from Atlantic City casinos and regulated online gaming. The submission of the form requires personal attendance at either the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) or the New Jersey Racing Commission. This must be done within the standard operating hours of these establishments. This has to be done within the normal hours of operation of the establishments concerned. Furthermore, you must provide photo identification to verify you are who you say you are and be prepared to be photographed. To make sure that the request is legitimate, the request has to be made in person.
Requests to self-exclude from online gambling can also be made in person by following the steps outlined above. Individuals residing in New Jersey have the convenience of applying for a self-exclusion from online gambling. Through a process that involves internal registration, this can be done using an official online gambling account.
All the process is basic. Your details, photo, and identity description will be shared when you request a self-exclusion. Automatically, all registered Casinos and online operators will receive this information. It’s used to prevent you from gambling and betting further. It will help you to overcome your addiction. Individuals on the self-exclusion list may be removed from marketing campaigns by Casino Management. This removal includes free offers and various services. Should an individual attempt to circumvent this self-imposed restriction and be discovered, all accumulated winnings and chips will be forfeited.
Your ability to play will only be restored after the specified period of time has elapsed. This is unless you or your family members have applied for a lifetime exclusion.
Gaming of all kinds can be an exciting and pleasurable activity. It does, however, require careful thought and restraint. The temptation to gamble can quickly lead you down a slippery slope if you fail to recognize the importance of gambling responsibly and maintaining a balanced perspective. Acknowledge that it’s often a long and difficult road to recovery. Always remember the importance of family and close relationships. We’ve elaborated on the various resources that are available to help you with potential gambling problems. Make use of this knowledge and approach your gambling with care and wisdom.