MATCHSTAT

Responsible Gambling

Responsible Gambling

At MatchStat, we are committed to ensuring our users have a safe and enjoyable betting experience. While many view betting as a form of entertainment, it's crucial to acknowledge that some individuals may struggle to maintain control. Collaborating with licensed gambling providers, we take it upon ourselves to educate our users about the potential risks associated with gambling. Our goal is to equip our community with the necessary tools and resources should they ever need guidance or support.

Understanding Safer Gambling

Responsible gambling involves wagering within one's means and enjoying the experience without it negatively impacting other areas of life, including relationships with family and friends. Identifying detrimental gambling habits isn't always straightforward. To assist in this, we've highlighted some indicators of potential issues. Recognizing these signs early is vital for preventing harm.

Could I Have a Problem?

  • Do you regularly gamble beyond your means?
  • Are you increasing your stakes for the same thrill?
  • Do you gamble to recover losses?
  • Have you borrowed money or sold items to gamble?
  • Does gambling cause you emotional distress?
  • Have loved ones expressed worries about your gambling?
  • Are your emotions driving your gambling decisions?
  • Have you faced financial problems due to gambling?
  • Do you feel guilty after gambling?
  • Is stopping a challenge, even when winning?

Recognizing Gambling Concerns

  • Problem Gambling: Inability to manage impulses, leading to unaffordable bets, mismanaged time, or deceit about activities.
  • Compulsive Gambling: An unstoppable urge to gamble, resulting in potential emotional dependency.
  • Binge Gambling: Characterized by intense, sporadic gambling episodes.
  • Relief Gambling: Using gambling as an escape, possibly leading to other personal issues.

The Imperative of Responsible Gambling

Simply put, if you can't gamble responsibly, refrain from gambling. Irresponsible gambling can detrimentally impact your life and the lives of those around you, leading to reduced quality of life, social isolation, health issues, financial strain, relationship troubles, potential criminal activities, and employment challenges.

Evaluating Your Gambling Habits

If you're uncertain about your gambling behaviors, consider the questions listed above and answer them candidly. If you resonate with 1-2 statements, reflect on your gambling control. For 3-4 affirmatives, seek professional evaluation. Answering "yes" to 5 or more suggests a likely gambling problem, warranting immediate intervention.

Where to Turn for Help?

If you ever feel overwhelmed by your gambling habits or merely want expert advice, a variety of resources are at your disposal.

Safer Gambling Tools Offered by Bookmakers

Licensed gambling providers offer numerous tools to help users keep track of their activities and maintain control:

  • Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits to ensure you never exceed your budget.
  • Cool Off Periods: Pause your betting activities for a duration ranging from one to 30 days.
  • Profit & Loss: Monitor your winnings and losses over specific periods, aiding in budget management.
  • Reality Check: Set reminders about how long you've been active on betting platforms.
  • Self-Exclusion: Prevent access to specific bookmakers for periods ranging from 6 months to 5 years. For broader restrictions, consider services like GAMSTOP, which blocks access to multiple gambling sites.

List of Bookmakers and Their Tools:

BookmakersDeposit LimitTime-outReality CheckSelf-ExclusionProfit/Loss GraphRestrictions
Bet365✓✓✓✓✓✓

Additional Support Tools:

  • Self-Assessment via GamCare: Gauge your gambling habits through an online questionnaire.
  • TalkBanStop: Access a combination of free tools designed to help you quit gambling online.
  • Social Media & Ad Controls: Limit gambling advertisements on platforms like Google, Twitter, and Facebook.
  • Blocking Software: Use applications like Gamban or BetBlocker to prevent access to gambling websites.
  • Banking Controls: Implement gambling transaction blocks on your debit cards.
  • Information on how to limit exposure to gambling advertising across social media platforms, such as is explained on this page: www.begambleaware.org/limitinggambling-ads-online

Support and Counseling Resources:

United Kingdom
  • GamStop- Free online self exclusion. Once registered you will be prevented from using gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain, for a period of your choosing.
  • GamCare Forums & Chatrooms: Interact with others who share similar experiences.
  • BeGambleAware: Access advice and support on safe gambling practices.
  • GamblingTherapy.org: Access global online support in multiple languages.
USA
Canada