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Responsible gambling in New Jersey

New Jersey offers a wide range of legal gambling options, and the state has been a pioneer of gambling expansion in the United States. This is a good thing on the one hand, but responsible gambling is key, and we provide some valuable insight on this page.

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Before we proceed further, if you are here because you’re looking for immediate help for problem gambling in New Jersey, stop reading and call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Problem gambling resources in New Jersey

There are entities out there that provide problem gambling assistance in New Jersey. If you have determined that you have a problem, action is required, and the New Jersey Casino Control Commission have confirmed that these are the organizations that can provide the necessary assistance.

Council on Compulsive Gambling in New Jersey

The state extracts money from gambling revenue that is devoted to supporting problem gambling resources. Rather than itemizing all of the different sources of help that exist, the state website directs people to the Council on Compulsive Gambling in New Jersey.

This is the ideal destination if you would like to confront a gambling problem that you are having, and support for family and friends of problem gamblers is available as well. It is actually the entity that you would reach if you call 1-800-GAMBLER.

There is a lot of great information on the site that can help you understand problem gaming, and there are actionable tips for people that are in recovery. Relevant events are listed along with meeting times and locations, and they also provide information about training for addiction counseling professionals.

Division of Gaming Enforcement Self-Exclusion Program

People that want to take decisive action can enter into a voluntary self-exclusion program. There are two different methods of New Jersey gambling self-exclusion offered.

You can exclude yourself from all in-person and internet-based gaming, and there is an exclusion option that is limited to online gaming activities. As for the interim, there are one-year, five-year, and lifetime exclusions.

National problem gambling resources

In addition to the state-level resources that are available in New Jersey, people in the state can access assistance from organizations that function on the national level, and we list them below.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step program that is akin to the very successful Alcoholics Anonymous concept. Members have been meeting to support one another for more than 50 years at this point, so this is a very viable option for individuals that are fed up with their problem gaming.

Gam-Anon

People close to individuals with gambling problems face their own challenges, and it can be hard to cope by yourself. Those that are in this position can get involved in a Gam-Anon group to receive support from others that have been negatively impacted by the problem gaming of a loved one.

Gamtalk

Last but not least, there is Gamtalk, which is an online platform on which you can discuss gambling problems with other people that have an interest. This can be a great way to interact with resonant individuals and engage in meaningful discourse without leaving the comfort of your home.

Responsible gambling overview

If you gamble responsibly from the outset, you will never have to be concerned about the resources that we have looked at to this point. Gambling can be an enjoyable way to spend some time, and we have all seen stories about people walking away with huge payouts.

Without question, a big win is always a possibility, but it is the exception rather than the rule. Gaming activities should be viewed as a form of entertainment that comes with a price tag like concert admission or a ticket to a ballgame.

Yes, winning is possible, but that’s really not what it’s all about when you gamble responsibly. The idea is to enjoy the excitement that goes along with the possibility of winning money with the clearheaded understanding that it probably won’t happen.

Responsible gambling tips

These tips will help you gamble responsibly so you can enjoy the activity without any negative consequences:

  • Establish a bankroll that you will devote to gambling, and exercise discipline to work within that budget.
  • To help you stay on budget, establish an amount that you will use for each bet or each wagering session.
  • Expect to lose so you keep your gambling in the proper perspective, and if you win, let it be a pleasant surprise.
  • Don’t gamble when you are heavily intoxicated.
  • Set time limits for yourself for your gambling sessions.
  • Cash out the winnings if you go on a lucky streak.
  • Never take yourself too seriously if you have a stretch of good luck.

How can betting operators help prevent problem gambling?

  • Develop a company culture that fosters responsible gambling.
  • Train employees to be able to identify problem gambling indicators.
  • Prominently post links to problem gambling resources on gaming websites.
  • At brick-and-mortar casinos, the house can stop taking action from people that are very drunk.
  • Refrain from deceptive advertising.

How to identify problem gambling

Where is the line drawn between harmless gambling and problem gaming? These are some of the warning signs:

  • Mood swings tied to gambling results
  • Constantly thinking about the next gambling session
  • Borrowing money to gamble
  • Taking cash advances from your credit cards to fund gaming activities
  • Financial difficulties related to gambling
  • Concealing your gambling expenditures from your partner
  • Increasing your bets to dangerous levels as you chase your losses
  • Can no longer have fun if you are not gambling

Key Takeaways

Many of the most enjoyable things in life have a potential downside if you go too far. Moderation is key, and it is important to have a game plan when you start gambling with the understanding that it can be very addicting. You should tread lightly if you have an addictive personality in general.

When it’s done responsibly, there is nothing wrong with putting out some money to play slots or bet on a ballgame. Exercise common sense and be truthful with yourself and others, and you will be able to enjoy the activity with no negative consequences.