Need help now?
Free, confidential help is available 24/7: call or text 1‑800‑GAMBLER, or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling. In crisis? Call 988.
Gambling should be entertainment you can afford — never a way to make money or escape problems. This page explains how to stay in control and where to get help.
Set limits before you play
- Money: decide a budget you can afford to lose, and stop when it's gone
- Time: set a session limit and take breaks
- Never chase losses — the single most dangerous habit
- Never gamble under the influence, upset, or with money for bills
Use operator tools
Important: offshore operators are not part of US state self‑exclusion programs. So you must use each site's own tools — most offer deposit limits, loss limits, cool‑off periods and self‑exclusion in account settings. Set them proactively.
Warning signs of problem gambling
- Betting more than you can afford, or chasing losses
- Borrowing money or selling things to gamble
- Lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling to escape stress or low mood
- Neglecting work, family or responsibilities
Help resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling: 1‑800‑GAMBLER · ncpgambling.org
- Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org
- Gam‑Anon (for family & friends): gam‑anon.org
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1‑800‑662‑4357
You must be 18+ (21+ at some operators) to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, reach out today — recovery is possible.