Online gambling offers exciting entertainment and the opportunity to win big. However, as with any form of gambling, it is important to gamble responsibly and know your own limits. This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know about Responsible gambling need to know, including Tips for self-monitoring and safe Betting.
Understanding responsible gambling
Responsible gaming is essential in order to maintain control over your own gaming behaviour and avoid financial and personal problems. With the new gambling regulation in Germany the measures for player protection were further strengthened. This includes the fact that all gambling providers with German Licence must adhere to strict guidelines in order to protect the players.
Important player protection measures include
- Self-limitation: Players can set personal stake and loss limits.
- Self-locking: Players have the option to temporarily or permanently exclude themselves from gambling.
- Counselling services: There are numerous offers of help for players who need support.
These measures help to recognise problem gambling and take countermeasures at an early stage.
Reasonable gambling budget
One of the most important principles of responsible gambling is managing your own budget. Careful documentation of deposits and withdrawals helps to keep an overview and avoid financial bottlenecks.
Tips for effective budget management:
- Set a fixed amount: Set yourself a monthly or weekly budget that you will spend as much as possible on gambling.
- Allow for losses: Only play with money that you can afford to lose.
- Analyse profits and losses: Regularly analyse your profits and losses to review your financial situation.
Intertops offers players the ability to set deposit and loss limits directly on the platform, which adds an extra layer of control. It is essential that you set your Emotions under control and not play out of frustration or euphoria.
Recognising warnings
A key aspect of responsible gaming is recognising the risks involved. Warning signs of problem gambling. An occasional visit to the arcade or a bet on your favourite sports team is unproblematic. However, if a certain dynamic develops where gambling behaviour gets out of control, you should definitely take action.
Typical signs of problem gambling:
- Uncontrolled play: The need to keep playing, even when it's not advisable.
- Rising stakes: Higher and higher stakes to experience the same excitement.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Restlessness or irritability when not playing.
- Denial: Concealing your own gaming behaviour from others.
- Financial problems: Difficulties in offsetting losses and paying bills.
- Unrealistic expectations: Believe that a big win is the solution to all problems.
If you notice one or more of these signs in yourself or someone around you, it is important to act immediately and seek help.
Gambling support for help with gambling addiction
In Germany there are numerous Contact pointsthat offer support for gambling addiction. You should make use of these support services as soon as you notice the first signs of problem gambling.
Important contact points in Germany:
- Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA): Provides comprehensive information and telephone counselling.
- Check-Dein-Spiel.de: An initiative of the BZgA that offers self-tests and online counselling.
- State specialist centres for gambling addiction: There are special specialist centres for those affected in every federal state.
- OASIS locking system: Allows players to block themselves or their relatives for a certain period of time.
These organisations help to develop strategies to control gambling behaviour and offer support in overcoming gambling addiction.
Find the right balance
Gambling should only be part of your leisure activities and should not dominate your everyday life. One balanced lifestyle and pursuing other interests are important in order not to slip into gambling addiction.
Tips on balance in gambling:
- Fixed playing times: Set times when you play and stick to them.
- Social activities: Meet friends and cultivate hobbies away from gambling.
- Sporting activity: If you are interested in Sports betting active participation in sport could also be a good balance.
It's also helpful to play with friends or socialise in online communities to make gambling more social and stay in control.
Share your awareness
Responsible gambling also means to support others. If you notice that someone around you is having difficulties with gambling, offer your help and point out the support options available.
Help others by:
- Give objective advice: Talk openly about your experiences and offer support.
- Suggest a group meeting: Encourage those affected to take part in group meetings to exchange ideas with others.
Responsible betting FAQ
What does responsible gambling mean and why is it important?
Responsible gambling refers to conscious and controlled gambling in which financial and personal limits are respected. It helps to avoid gambling addiction and its negative consequences.
How do I find out that my gambling has become a problem?
Watch out for warning signs such as rising stakes, financial problems and withdrawal symptoms. If you realise that you are losing control, it's time to take action.
How do I set a realistic gambling budget for myself?
Start with a smaller budget and set yourself monthly limits. At Intertops, you can deposit a maximum of €1000 per month.
What tools can I use to document my gambling expenditure?
Use digital documents or traditional methods such as pen and paper. At Intertops you will find a detailed list of your deposits and withdrawals.
Can I limit the deposit limits at bookmakers and online casinos?
Yes, you can set your own limits to protect yourself from uncontrolled gambling.
Where can I find trustworthy gambling support in Germany?
The BZgA, Check-Dein-Spiel and the state specialist centres for gambling addiction offer comprehensive support.
What help do gambling support initiatives offer?
In addition to counselling and self-tests, many contact points also offer group meetings and work with you to develop strategies for overcoming gambling addiction.
By following these tips and being aware of your gambling habits, you can enjoy gambling as an entertaining pastime without losing control.
English 
German