7 Responsible Gambling Tips Every Bettor Should Know

Betting is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or recover losses. Keeping that in mind is the single most important habit a bettor can build. The tips below help you stay in control.

1. Set a budget before you bet

Decide how much you can afford to lose and treat it as the cost of entertainment. Never use money set aside for rent, bills, food or savings.

2. Set a time limit

Money is not the only thing worth budgeting. Decide how long you will spend betting and step away when that time is up.

3. Never chase losses

Trying to win back a loss with a bigger bet is the fastest route to a worse loss. Accept that losing runs happen and stick to your budget.

4. Do not bet to escape stress

If you reach for betting when you feel low, anxious or under pressure, it has stopped being entertainment. Take a break instead.

5. Keep betting separate from alcohol

Betting decisions made while drinking tend to be larger and less considered. Keep the two apart.

6. Use the tools available

Most licensed operators offer deposit limits, reality checks, time-outs and self-exclusion. These tools exist to help you — use them before you feel you need to.

7. Know the signs and ask for help

• Betting more than you planned, or more often than you planned
• Borrowing money or selling things to fund betting
• Hiding betting from family or friends
• Feeling anxious, irritable or restless when not betting

If any of these sound familiar, support is available. In Kenya you can contact the Gambling Regulatory Authority or a recognised counselling service. You must be 18 or older to bet, and help is always free and confidential.