Responsible Gambling

What Leads to Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling doesn’t develop overnight. It is usually the result of several combined factors that influence behaviour and decision-making. While some players naturally maintain control, others may find it harder to stop once they start.

Common causes include:

• Emotional triggers, such as stress, anxiety, loneliness, or boredom
• Unrealistic expectations, like believing losses can always be recovered
• Social influences, where gambling is encouraged or normalised
• Accessibility, especially with 24/7 online gambling platforms

In New Zealand, the accessibility of pokies and online casinos makes it even more important to stay mindful. The more frequently you are exposed to gambling opportunities, the easier it becomes to form habits that are difficult to break.

Warning Signs to Watch Out For

Recognising early warning signs is key to preventing serious issues. Many players don’t notice a problem until it starts affecting their daily lives, finances, or relationships.

Some of the most common signs include:

• Spending more money than originally planned
• Trying to recover losses by continuing to gamble
• Thinking about gambling frequently or feeling restless when not playing
• Hiding gambling activity from friends or family
• Borrowing money or struggling to manage expenses

Emotional and physical effects can also appear. These may include stress, irritability, sleep problems, or difficulty concentrating. If gambling stops being enjoyable and starts feeling like a necessity, it’s time to take a step back and reassess.

Practical Tips for Responsible Gambling

Staying in control requires discipline and awareness. Responsible gambling is about setting boundaries and sticking to them, regardless of wins or losses.

Here are some practical tips to help you stay on track:

• Set a clear budget before you begin and never exceed it
• Limit your playing time to avoid long sessions
• Avoid chasing losses, as this often leads to bigger financial problems
• Take regular breaks to maintain a clear mindset
• Avoid gambling under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Understand the rules and odds of each game before playing
• Use built-in tools, such as deposit and loss limits
• Treat gambling as entertainment, not a source of income

By following these simple rules, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing unhealthy habits.

Organisations That Can Help You with Debt

If gambling has led to financial difficulties, it’s important to know that support is available. New Zealand offers several organisations that can help you manage debt and regain control of your finances.

• Insolvency and Trustee Service
  This government service provides a range of insolvency options depending on your situation. If your debt is under $50,000, a Debt Repayment Order (DRO) may be a suitable solution. They also offer supervision for both individuals and businesses.
• Debtfix
  Debtfix offers personalised advice and practical solutions for managing debt. Their approach is tailored to each individual, helping clients avoid bankruptcy and find realistic ways to improve their financial situation.
• CAP Debt Help
  CAP provides long-term debt counselling and support. Their team can help create a manageable repayment plan and even negotiate with creditors on your behalf, giving you a clear path towards becoming debt-free.