Responsible Gambling

Gambling is becoming increasingly accessible worldwide, with the gaming market growing day by day, and Hungary is no exception. The reasons for this include:

• Gambling is entertaining.
• It is available anytime and anywhere – 24/7.
• It offers various games and activities for every preference.

However, we must not forget that online gambling also has disadvantages and risks, such as:

• It is not legal everywhere in the world and not for everyone.
• There is a risk of losing money.
• It can lead to addiction and even gambling disorder, causing distress and problems for the player and their surroundings.

To avoid gambling addiction issues, the gaming community has developed general principles and strategies that help maintain self-control and prevent these problems from arising. The term “Responsible Gambling” is widely recognized.

What Is Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling refers to the set of measures and approaches in the gambling industry aimed at minimizing potential harm to players and society due to excessive enthusiasm for gambling. The principles of responsible gambling include:

• Providing players with information about gambling risks and signs of addiction.
• Allowing players to set time or financial limits.
• Prohibiting operators from offering credit to players.
• Enabling self-exclusion and voluntary restriction from casinos or websites.
• Restricting advertising targeted at vulnerable groups.
• Providing assistance for those suffering from gambling addiction, including treatment and rehabilitation.

The goal of responsible gambling is to ensure a reasonable balance between the freedom of choice for adult players and the protection of society from the negative consequences of gambling. Responsible gambling is based on conscious and healthy decision-making regarding online gaming. This is crucial because gambling becomes problematic when a player loses control over their actions.

What Is Gambling Addiction (Ludomania)?

Compulsive gambling addiction, also known as ludomania, is often referred to as “gambling addiction.” It is an addictive, chronic, and progressive disorder. Like other addictions (e.g., alcoholism), it is based on chemical and psychological dependency. Thus, three types of harmful gambling behaviors can be identified:

1. Problem Gambling

Gambling becomes problematic if it negatively impacts any aspect of a player’s life. However, the player has not yet completely lost control of their gambling habits.

Signs of problem gambling include:

• Spending increasing amounts of time gambling.
• Lying to family members about gambling habits.
• Gambling to recover losses.
• Gambling despite potential risks to personal or professional life.

2. Abusive Gambling

In this case, the player exhibits symptoms of pathological gambling but only periodically. Most of the time, they seem to have control over their gambling habits.

Weeks or months may pass without addiction symptoms, but the occasional presence of compulsive gambling behaviors should not be ignored.

3. Pathological or Compulsive Gambling

At this stage, gambling has turned into an addiction. Despite being aware of the negative impact on their life, the pathological gambler cannot stop gambling. Whether winning or losing, they cannot control their urge to gamble, regardless of the consequences.

A compulsive gambler:

• Takes excessive risks and places increasingly higher bets.
• Wagers amounts they cannot afford to lose.
• Faces severe problems in their personal and family life due to gambling.

Signs of Gambling Addiction

There are behavioral patterns typical of compulsive gamblers. The sooner someone recognizes these signs, the faster they can avoid the consequences of gambling addiction.

According to the American Psychiatric Association (2018), key diagnostic criteria include:

• Preoccupation with gambling: The player constantly thinks about gambling, making family, friends, work, and other activities secondary.
• Increasing bet amounts: What was once exciting is no longer enough. The player must increase the risk and bet size to feel the same thrill.
• Inability to stop: The player loses the ability to set limits. Despite attempts to stop or reduce gambling, they fail.
• Gambling as an escape: The player uses gambling to avoid problems or unpleasant feelings like loneliness, guilt, depression, or anxiety.
• Restlessness when abstaining: Reducing or quitting gambling causes irritability and restlessness.
• Secrecy and lying: The player hides their gambling involvement from family, friends, or therapists.
• Damage to personal, social, and professional life: Gambling threatens relationships, job opportunities, or education.
• Chasing losses: The gambler tries to recover losses by gambling more, leading to even greater financial problems.
• Gambling despite financial struggles: The player places bets that put their own and their family’s livelihood at risk. They may take loans, accumulate debt, sell possessions, or even engage in theft or illegal activities to finance gambling.

Important Reminder About Gambling Addiction

If you suspect gambling addiction in yourself or someone close to you, it is essential to seek professional evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Many symptoms of gambling addiction overlap with psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive behavior, or hyperactivity. Therefore, a professional diagnosis is crucial. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to consult a mental health professional, therapist, or psychiatrist.

Causes of Ludomania

Just like with other addictions, pinpointing the exact causes of ludomania is difficult. However, it is known that various complex factors influence an individual, making them more susceptible to this pathology—ranging from genetic predisposition to personality disorders.

Biological Factors

Research has shown that the brains of some compulsive gamblers function similarly to those of drug addicts, such as alcoholics. Gambling releases serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine—hormones related to stress, happiness, and excitement.

Some passionate gamblers fail to produce sufficient amounts of these hormones naturally. As a result, gambling becomes a necessary tool for compensation and addiction.

Gender is also an important factor: men gamble more often and usually start at a younger age, whereas women tend to develop gambling addiction more quickly.

Other possible factors include genetic predisposition and the use of dopamine agonists—medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease and restless leg syndrome.

Psychological Factors

Gambling problems can, to some extent, be linked to dominant personality traits. These include competitiveness, workaholism, impulsivity, restlessness (or proneness to boredom), egocentrism, grandiosity, and a desire for power. Additionally, an inclination to believe in superstitions related to online gambling can also be a risk factor.

Beyond personality traits, psychological disorders can also be directly linked to gambling addiction. These include anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder.

Social Factors

Gambling problems can intensify during stressful or challenging life situations. Moments of loneliness, excessive stress, workplace issues, the death of a loved one, or conflicts within the family can all act as risk factors for those with compulsive tendencies toward online gambling.

Some individuals turn to gambling in times of financial hardship, hoping it will provide a source of income or financial relief. However, this is a misconception that, on the contrary, can exacerbate gambling addiction and lead to even more severe financial difficulties.

Early exposure to gambling during childhood or adolescence can also increase the risk of developing gambling addiction. Additionally, influence from friends or family members with problematic gambling tendencies can contribute to the disorder.

Comorbidity

As mentioned earlier, a connection exists between gambling addiction and various psychological disorders. Anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, OCD, and bipolar disorder are commonly observed among compulsive gamblers.

Moreover, alcohol and substance abuse are also prevalent among problem gamblers.

Negative Consequences of Gambling Addiction

When gambling ceases to be just entertainment, the life of the gambler and their loved ones can suffer in many ways. Below, we analyze how gambling addiction impacts different aspects of a person’s life.

Finances

A gambling addiction and the inability to stop betting often result in serious financial problems. Borrowed money gradually leads to mounting debt. Selling personal belongings, theft, or illegal activities can become desperate measures to fund the addiction.

Work

Gamblers often choose to spend time gambling instead of fulfilling their responsibilities at work. Reduced productivity, prolonged absences, excessive phone use for personal calls, conflicts with colleagues over money, and sudden mood swings are all negative consequences that can directly impact professional performance. Many compulsive gamblers end up losing their jobs.

Family

Statistics show that compulsive gamblers’ families are at a higher risk of domestic violence and child neglect. Data also suggests that children of compulsive gamblers are more likely to develop behavioral issues, depression, or substance abuse problems.

Additionally, financial difficulties, accumulated debts, poverty, and potential involvement in illegal activities can have a severe impact on the family.

Mental Health

As with other addictions, mental health disorders can be triggered or worsened by gambling addiction. The most common psychological issues among problem gamblers include anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, OCD, and bipolar disorder.

Suicidal thoughts and attempts are also significant risks for compulsive gamblers.

How to Overcome Gambling Addiction

Gambling addiction is a chronic and progressive disorder. While it cannot be completely cured, it can be managed or controlled. Fortunately, various methods exist to help problem gamblers mitigate the consequences of this condition, including:

• Therapy and Medical Treatment – Professional medical assistance is essential, as it is one of the most effective tools for treating gambling addiction. Psychotherapy helps many gamblers recover, especially because there is a strong link between gambling addiction and depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. Medications such as antidepressants, antiepileptics, or drugs used for treating other addictions may also be prescribed by a doctor.
  
• Support Groups – In combination with psychotherapy, support groups can facilitate recovery for compulsive gamblers. One example is Gamblers Anonymous, which provides meetings, information exchange, and emotional support, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. In Hungary, these meetings take place in Budapest and other major cities. Contact details for these and other organizations can be found at the end of this article.
  
• Daily Activities – Gamblers should try to incorporate specific activities into their daily routine. Strengthening social connections (family, friends), engaging in enjoyable hobbies, avoiding isolation, limiting access to gambling venues, and setting financial restrictions can all help reduce the urge to gamble.

How to Help Someone Cope with Gambling Addiction

The family of a compulsive gambler usually notices that something is wrong, even if they do not initially understand what it is. Some clear signs of gambling addiction include:

• Hiding or lying about gambling habits.
• Neglecting relationships with family members or oneself in favor of gambling.
• Frequently borrowing money or selling personal belongings.
• Spending more and more time gambling.
• Using money intended for bills or food for gambling.

If you suspect that a family member or friend is suffering from gambling addiction, remember that denial is a common characteristic of addictive behavior. It can be difficult for the gambler to admit they have a problem. Recognizing and facing gambling addiction can be a serious challenge, making the support of family and close friends crucial.

Steps to Take

It is important to remember that the decision to stop gambling must be made by the gambler themselves—no one else can do it for them. However, there are small steps you can take to support them:

• Encourage the gambler to seek help and positively reinforce their efforts toward recovery.
• Take care of yourself. Protect yourself emotionally and financially, and seek help if needed to handle the situation. Be prepared to say “NO” when the compulsive gambler asks for money. Anticipate this moment and stand firm in your decision.
• Be attentive to the risk of suicidal tendencies.

Supporting a Gambling Addict in the Family

The situation can be even more complicated for family members, especially if they live with or financially depend on the gambler. If the compulsive gambler is your partner or dependent:

• Acknowledge their problem and do not make excuses or find ways to deny the addiction.
• Talk to them in a calm moment. Explain how their gambling affects them and the family, and encourage them to seek help.
• Avoid preaching, moral lessons, threats, or ultimatums. Try to remain calm at all times.
• If possible, talk to your children about your partner’s problem.
• Do not exclude the gambler from family gatherings or events.
• Take control of the family’s finances to ensure that savings and necessary household expenses are not at risk.
• Be prepared for a long and difficult recovery process, and be there to encourage and support your loved one throughout their journey.

How to Protect a Problem Gambler from Suicide

The overwhelming feeling of addiction, combined with potential family, financial, or work-related problems, as well as personality disorders associated with gambling addiction, can increase the risk of suicide attempts. The family and friends of a compulsive gambler should always be aware of the warning signs of suicidal behavior.

If you have suicidal thoughts or feel that a friend or family member may be at risk, remember: there is always a support line available, ready to listen and help.

Alternatives to Gambling

A compulsive gambler may falsely believe that gambling is the only way to fulfill certain needs in life. However, in every situation, there are healthier and more effective alternatives.

Reason for Gambling: When I gamble, I love the adrenaline rush!

Alternative: Find a good source of adrenaline and excitement elsewhere. Try extreme or challenging sports—from rock climbing to mountain biking, from surfing to go-karting, from rafting to skydiving, and even bungee jumping! If you live in a city, look for indoor climbing gyms, paintball, try parkour, or dust off your old skateboard.

Reason for Gambling: Gambling helps distract me from my problems and cope with tough times.

Alternative: Consider attending psychotherapy. Talking to a professional about your feelings can bring immense relief. Any form of self-expression, such as theater, dance, drama therapy, or art therapy, can also help release negativity.

Reason for Gambling: Gambling helps me fight loneliness and boredom.

Alternative: Find a hobby that you truly enjoy—art, music, sports, literature, and more. This will allow you to meet like-minded people and make new friends.

Reason for Gambling: Gambling helps me relax after a stressful day.

Alternative: Try other relaxation methods and dedicate time to yourself. Reading a good book, watching movies, listening to music, meditating, practicing yoga, or doing breathing exercises can help you feel better. If those don’t work for you, simply engage in physical activity for at least 15 minutes. On particularly stressful days, treat yourself to a soothing massage.

Reason for Gambling: I need money.

Alternative: If you are facing financial difficulties, it is better to seek advice from a financial counselor. In any form of gambling, the odds are stacked against the player. The risk of losses and debt is far greater than the chance of winning.

Gambling Addiction: Myths and Facts

Assistance for Gambling-Related Problems

Fortunately, more and more institutions and organizations are available today to provide expert assistance for various addictions, including gambling addiction.

Both Hungarian and international organizations offer support to Hungarian players. These organizations focus on overcoming gambling-related problems based on the principles of mutual support, confidentiality, and non-judgmental assistance.

Hungarian and International Organizations

• maradjonjatek.hu – A Hungarian website providing information and support for those struggling with gambling addiction. The site offers helpful articles on overcoming the issue, as well as access to professionals. It is supervised by Szerencsejáték Zrt.
  
• Anonymous Gamblers Community – An international, non-profit self-help organization for individuals suffering from gambling addiction. Participation is anonymous and follows the principles of the 12-step program.
  
• BeGambleAware – A UK-based charity focused on preventing gambling-related problems. It provides informational materials and a support hotline for those in need.
  
• Gambling Therapy – A global non-profit organization offering online counseling and support groups for people struggling with gambling addiction. It also provides a Hungarian-language website.
  
• National Institute of Psychiatry and Addictology – This institute conducts psychiatric and addiction-related research and treatments, helping with mental health issues, with a particular focus on addictions and rehabilitation.
  
• Gambling Addiction Prevention and Support Center – Specializing in the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction, this center provides support for addicted individuals and offers programs to promote responsible gambling.
  

Gambling-Related Helpline

Hungarian players can receive free, anonymous counseling for gambling-related crisis situations. The service is available via phone, Skype, and email from Monday to Friday between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

• Phone Numbers: +36-1-411-6778 and +36-21-262-0603
• Email: [email protected]
• Skype: “ELTE Szerencsejátékos Ségélyszolgált”

Support Groups

Open group sessions are held for individuals struggling with gambling issues and their relatives. These free sessions take place in cities such as Budapest, Debrecen, Miskolc, Kaposvár, Orosháza, Sopron, and Szolnok. For more details, visit segelyszervezet.hu.

Hungarian Ecumenical Aid Service

This organization operates seven information centers across the country, offering guidance and practical assistance for gambling addiction treatment. More information can be found on the Játék határokkal website.

Local Assistance

Support services are available in almost every Hungarian city through local organizations and institutions:

• Dömsöd: https://bugatpal.hu/, Phone: 06-37 31-24-91
• Budapest: https://megallo.org/hu_HU/, Phone: 36-1 303-65-74
• Kővágószőlős: https://www.merfoldkorehab.hu/, Phone: (72) 49-87-91
• Budapest: http://kimondhato.hu/, Phone: 36-1 355-03-37
• Budapest: http://nygy-opai.hu/, Phone: 36-1 451-26-00
• Nagycsécs: https://alkoholbeteg.hu/, Phone: 06 20 / 379-60-99
• Pécsvárad: http://www.indit.hu/, Phone: 72/465 307

Final Thoughts

It is important to note that most people participate in gambling recreationally without developing addiction problems. As with anything, a balanced approach and moderation are key.