Responsible Gaming: Setting Limits and Staying Safe
In a world where gambling has become more accessible than ever, a responsible approach to gaming isn't just a recommendation – it's a necessity. Every day, thousands of people in New Zealand enjoy gambling as a form of entertainment. But for a small percentage, this entertainment can turn into a serious problem.
"Responsible gaming begins with understanding that gambling is a form of paid entertainment, not a way to earn money. Once you start viewing gambling as a source of income, you enter a danger zone." – Dr Emma Williams, Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand
Problem Gambling in New Zealand: Facts and Figures
According to New Zealand Ministry of Health data (2024), approximately 2.3% of the adult population experiences gambling-related harm. This may seem like a small percentage, but that's over 85,000 people, and each story is unique.
Particularly concerning data comes from the Problem Gambling Foundation 2024 study:
- Online gambling has grown by 156% since 2020
- The average age of problem gamblers has decreased from 45 to 37 years
- 48% of problem gamblers started playing online during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Men are 2.5 times more likely to develop gambling problems
What is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling (or gambling disorder) is the inability to control gaming behaviour despite negative consequences. It's not a matter of willpower or character – it's a recognised behavioural disorder, included in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria
According to DSM-5, the presence of 4 or more of the following signs within 12 months indicates gambling disorder:
- Need to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve desired excitement
- Restlessness or irritability when attempting to reduce or stop gambling
- Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, reduce, or stop gambling
- Frequent preoccupation with gambling
- Gambling when feeling distressed or to escape problems
- Returning the next day after losing ("chasing losses")
- Lying to family about extent of gambling involvement
- Risking significant relationships, job, or opportunities due to gambling
- Relying on others for money to gamble
Early Warning Signs: What to Watch For
Professor Michael Chen from Auckland University Gaming Research Center highlights "red flags" that may indicate a developing problem:
Behavioural Signs
- Time boundaries disappear: "Just 5 more minutes" turns into hours
- Playing beyond budget: Using money intended for other purposes
- Chasing losses: Attempting to "win back" with increasingly larger bets
- Secrecy: Hiding gaming activity from loved ones
- Borrowed money: Loans from friends, family, or credit institutions for gambling
Emotional Signs
- Anxiety, especially related to money
- Depression or dramatic mood swings
- Feelings of guilt or shame after gambling
- Irritability when unable to gamble
- Using gambling as an "escape" from real problems
Setting Effective Limits: Practical Guide
Financial Limits
Research by the Gambling Research Centre showed that players who set clear financial limits before starting play are 73% less likely to exceed their planned budget.
The 3-5-10 Rule:
- 3% of income: Maximum you can spend on gambling monthly
- 5% of session: Maximum bet should be no more than 5% of session budget
- 10% win target: Upon reaching 10% profit from initial bankroll – stop
Application Example:
Income: $4,000 NZD/month
Gaming budget: $120 NZD/month (3%)
Weekly limit: $30 NZD
Maximum bet: $1.50 NZD (5% of $30 NZD)
Win target: +$3 NZD (10% of $30 NZD)
Time Limits
| Gaming Frequency | Recommended Time | Mandatory Breaks | Weekly Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | 30-60 min | Every 30 min | 7 hours |
| 2-3 times per week | 1-2 hours | Every hour | 6 hours |
| Once a week | 2-3 hours | Every 90 min | 3 hours |
| Once a month | 3-4 hours | Every 2 hours | 4 hours |
Self-Exclusion Tools
Most licensed online casinos offer various self-control tools. According to UK Gambling Commission data, players using these tools are 84% less likely to develop gambling problems.
Types of Self-Exclusion
| Type | Duration | Can Be Cancelled | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling-off | 24 hours - 1 week | No | Impulse control |
| Temporary exclusion | 1-6 months | Only after period ends | Habit reassessment |
| Permanent exclusion | Minimum 5 years | Only via procedure | Serious problems |
"Self-exclusion isn't a sign of weakness, it's a demonstration of strength and responsibility. We see that players who use these tools preventatively are far less likely to face serious problems." – Lisa Rodriguez, Director of Player Protection, New Zealand Gaming Authority
Support Resources in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a comprehensive support system for people with gambling problems and their loved ones:
National Services
- Problem Gambling Foundation: 0800 654 655 (24/7 helpline)
- Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655
- Text Support: 8006 (free SMS 24/7)
- Online Chat: www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz
Regional Services
Auckland:
- Problem Gambling Foundation Auckland – (09) 303 4316
- Salvation Army Gambling Services – (09) 262 2332
- Asian Family Services – (09) 570 7113
Wellington:
- Problem Gambling Foundation Wellington – (04) 473 6747
- Te Araroa Trust – (04) 801 6655
Christchurch:
- Problem Gambling Foundation Christchurch – (03) 366 6539
- Community & Youth Concern – (03) 366 6278
Technology Tools for Responsible Gaming
Modern technology offers numerous ways to support responsible gaming:
Built-in Casino Tools
- Deposit Limits: Setting daily/weekly/monthly deposit limits
- Loss Limits: Automatic session closure upon reaching loss limit
- Reality Checks: Pop-up notifications about gaming time and money spent
- Time Limits: Setting maximum gaming session duration
Third-Party Applications
- Gamban: Blocks access to gambling sites on all devices
- BetBlocker: Free application for blocking gambling sites
- Gambling Tracker: Tracks time and money spent on gaming
Creating a Healthy Gaming Environment
Research by the Responsible Gambling Council showed that gaming context influences behaviour no less than the game itself.
Safe Gaming Environment Rules
- Play sober: Alcohol impairs judgement by 37%
- Don't play when stressed: Emotional decisions lead to greater losses
- Play at set times: Avoid impulsive gaming
- Use a separate account: Never gamble with living expenses
- Share with loved ones: Transparency reduces problem risk by 62%
Helping Loved Ones: Supporting a Problem Gambler
If you're concerned about a loved one's gambling behaviour, here's what specialists recommend:
What to Do:
- ✓ Choose a calm time for conversation
- ✓ Talk about specific behaviour, not the person
- ✓ Express your concern without judgement
- ✓ Offer help in finding support
- ✓ Set your own boundaries
What Not to Do:
- ✗ Don't lend money for gambling
- ✗ Don't pay gambling debts
- ✗ Don't lecture or criticise
- ✗ Don't ignore the problem hoping it will resolve itself
- ✗ Don't take full responsibility
Financial Recovery After Problem Gambling
The Problem Gambling Foundation offers a structured financial recovery programme:
Recovery Stages
- Damage Assessment (1-2 weeks): Complete inventory of financial situation
- Stabilisation (1-3 months): Stop gambling, protect remaining assets
- Restructuring (3-12 months): Negotiate with creditors, payment plan
- Recovery (1-3 years): Gradual debt repayment and rebuilding savings
Recovery Stories: Case Examples
"I lost $45,000 over 18 months playing online poker. I thought I could win it back, but only got deeper in debt. Contacting the Problem Gambling Foundation saved my life. Three years gamble-free, debts paid off, relationships with family restored." – John, 42, Auckland (name changed)
Conclusion: Responsibility Begins with Awareness
Responsible gaming isn't about giving up entertainment. It's about control, balance, and protecting what truly matters in life. Key principles of responsible gaming:
- Gambling is entertainment, not a way to earn money
- Set clear time and money limits before starting to play
- Never try to chase losses
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose
- Watch for warning signs in yourself and loved ones
- Don't hesitate to seek help
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Resources are available, support is real, and recovery is possible.
