Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At heidelbergchiro.com, we believe that pokies and online gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming should be fun, exciting, and within your means. If you find yourself gambling to make money, chase losses, or escape problems, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years old (or the legal gambling age in your Australian state or territory) to use our services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time. If you are under the legal age, please do not gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know?
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essentials
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time or money spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to feel the same excitement
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or to pay gambling debts
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Risking important relationships, job opportunities, or education due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or week
- Time Limits: Limit how long you can play in a single session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders during play about time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gaming habits.
Support Organizations
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for gambling problems - Gamblers Anonymous Australia
Support groups and peer assistance across Australia - Beyond Blue
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Mental health support (problem gambling often co-occurs with anxiety and depression)
United Kingdom
- GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support, advice, and information about problem gambling - GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Prevention and treatment resources for problem gambling
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Confidential referrals to treatment and support services
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, seek help today. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. There is no shame in reaching out. Contact one of the organizations listed above, or speak with a counselor, doctor, or trusted friend or family member about your concerns.
Remember: If gaming stops being fun, it's time to stop.