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.
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.
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 these are the people 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 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:
How can betting operators help prevent problem gambling?
How to identify problem gambling
Where is the line drawn between harmless gambling and problem gaming? These are some of the warning signs:
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.