If you think you have a problem with online gambling, there are a number of organisations that offer support and free advice. One of these organisations is GamCare. Their online gambling assessment tool will ask you questions about your gambling habits and give you a personalised report and advice on what to do next. Another option is Victim Support.
Legislation to regulate online gambling
Many jurisdictions around the world are introducing new laws to regulate online gambling. Switzerland is among those countries that have implemented a new federal gambling law in 2019. The new act is aimed at modernizing and harmonizing the existing law and opening the market to online casino gambling. The new law includes specific provisions that aim to limit the risks associated with online gaming. This includes ensuring that games are designed with protection measures, and preventing the access of unauthorized sites.
The new legislation would also remove the legal responsibility of internet service providers to host illegal gambling sites. The bill passed the Senate by a margin of 25-2 and will be forwarded to the governor’s desk. However, opponents of the bill are worried that it would lead to an increase in online gambling.
Ways to identify a reputable online casino
It is crucial to choose a reputable online casino that offers a good range of games. A reputable online casino will be licensed and have policies regarding player protection. Moreover, it should be transparent about its playthrough requirements. If a casino offers a high amount of flashy bonuses or flashy promotions, this should raise your suspicion. Legitimate online casinos will not be hesitant to give out such bonuses, but they should be transparent about their terms and conditions.
To identify a reputable online casino, look for its license from a trusted gaming authority. A gambling license ensures the safety of your funds, since only a legitimate gaming authority can issue a license to an online casino. The license can be found at the bottom of a casino’s homepage and will state the name of the licensing authority and its license number.
Internet-based gambling causes addiction
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has recognized that Internet-based gambling causes addiction in some people. The publication, published in 2013, listed internet gaming disorder among conditions that require further research. The DSM-5 focuses on substance-related addictive disorders, such as those caused by opioids and stimulants. Unlike other addictive disorders, internet gaming disorder is a behavioral disorder.
The prevalence of Internet-based gambling is growing rapidly. The study also found that 96 percent of people who have a gambling problem also exhibit symptoms of another psychiatric disorder. Another study found that more than five thousand active-duty military personnel suffer from an addiction to gambling, and that veterans are at high risk for suicide.
Ways to recognise a problem gambler
In order to recognise a problem gambler, you need to look for certain indicators. In addition to exhibiting visible emotions, these individuals also show anti-social behavior and unusual social interactions. Their gambling behavior may also be frenetic or intense. These gamblers often report blaming others for their losses, or pursuing loans or credit from other people.
Problem gambling can be a symptom of addiction. Statistics show that about 2 million people are vulnerable to problem gambling. These individuals often gamble to the point that it interferes with their personal and professional lives. Their gambling habits can also affect their recreational activities, such as sports. As such, it is important for online gambling operators to identify problem gamblers, prevent them from gambling, and help them to overcome their addiction.
