Responsible Gambling

Gambling should be fun and entertaining. Learn how to gamble responsibly and get help if you need it.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Recognize the signs and get help early

Financial Issues

  • • Borrowing money to gamble
  • • Selling possessions for gambling
  • • Neglecting bills and expenses
  • • Chasing losses with bigger bets

Relationship Problems

  • • Lying about gambling activities
  • • Neglecting family and friends
  • • Arguments about gambling
  • • Isolation from loved ones

Emotional Changes

  • • Anxiety and depression
  • • Mood swings
  • • Irritability when not gambling
  • • Feelings of guilt or shame

Work/School Issues

  • • Poor performance
  • • Frequent absences
  • • Using work time to gamble
  • • Loss of job due to gambling

Behavioral Changes

  • • Spending excessive time gambling
  • • Difficulty stopping
  • • Neglecting other activities
  • • Using gambling to escape problems

Legal Issues

  • • Gambling-related crimes
  • • Bankruptcy
  • • Legal consequences
  • • Criminal charges

How to Gamble Responsibly

Follow these guidelines to keep gambling fun and safe

Set a Budget

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Never use money meant for bills, rent, or other essential expenses.

Set Time Limits

Decide how long you'll gamble and stick to it. Take regular breaks and don't let gambling interfere with other activities.

Don't Chase Losses

Accept that losing is part of gambling. Never try to win back money you've lost by betting more.

Gamble for Fun

View gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money. Enjoy the experience, not just the outcome.

Avoid Alcohol

Don't gamble while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Clear thinking helps you make better decisions.

Take Breaks

Step away from gambling regularly. Engage in other activities and hobbies to maintain balance.

Know the Odds

Understand that the house always has an advantage. Don't expect to win consistently.

Seek Help Early

If you're concerned about your gambling, reach out for help immediately. Early intervention is key.

Self-Exclusion Options

Tools to help you control your gambling

Sportsbook Self-Exclusion

Most sportsbooks offer self-exclusion programs that allow you to block yourself from accessing their services for a specified period.

State Programs

Many states have official self-exclusion programs that prevent you from gambling at licensed establishments.

Family Controls

Ask family members to help monitor your gambling and set up controls on your accounts and devices.

Get Help Now

Free, confidential help is available 24/7

National Problem Gambling Helpline

Call 1-800-522-4700 for confidential help and support

Call Now

Gamblers Anonymous

Find local support groups and meetings in your area

Find Meetings

Gam-Anon

Support for family and friends of problem gamblers

Get Support

National Council on Problem Gambling

Resources, education, and advocacy for problem gambling

Visit Website

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741 for immediate crisis support

Text Now

Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Call 988 for immediate help if you're in crisis

Call 988

Important Notice

If you or someone you know is experiencing a gambling problem, help is available. Gambling addiction is a serious issue that can affect your health, relationships, and finances.

You are not alone. Millions of people have overcome gambling problems with the right support and treatment.

Golden Sportsbooks

All content on Golden Sportsbooks is for informational and educational purposes only. Our sportsbook reviews and rankings are the independent editorial opinions of our team, led by editor Tommy Visor. We are not a betting operator and maintain strict editorial standards to ensure our reviews are unbiased, regardless of any business relationships.

Affiliate Disclosure: While we may receive compensation from some sportsbooks featured on our site, this does not influence our editorial decisions, rankings, or reviews.

No Professional Advice: The information provided on this site should not be considered professional gambling or legal advice. Visitors are responsible for checking and complying with local laws and regulations before engaging in any sports betting activities.

Responsible Gaming: Golden Sportsbooks does not promote or encourage gambling. If you choose to bet, please do so responsibly. Set limits, never chase losses, and seek help if gambling becomes problematic.

© 2025 Golden Sportsbooks. All rights reserved.

Gambling can be addictive. Please gamble responsibly. Must be 21+ to gamble.