Are you a bingo fan? Whether you’ve been going to bingo halls for years or you’re new to the game, if you’re considering playing online for the first time it’s important that you know how to play responsibly.
This is a popular way to play and, while there are similarities between how you play online and how you play in person, there are ways to keep yourself safe if you’re accessing the game via an app on your phone or through your browser.
Here are some things to consider.
Set limits
Before you begin playing online bingo, it’s important that you have a budget in mind. Consider how much you want to spend before you stop playing and make sure you put forward the amounts you can afford to spend. To do this, allocate your funds responsibly. So, make sure that the amount you’ve set aside for your game is being used in a way that’s sensible.
One of the most important things to do is set a limit. Having this in mind will give you a hard stop when you reach the amount you decided that you’d spend on your game.
By taking these steps you can maintain control over what you spend and avoid financial harm.
Pace yourself
As well as setting a limit on how much you want to spend on your game of bingo, set a time limit so you can regulate how long you play for. This will ensure you’re playing in moderation and keeping a balance between enjoying the game and taking time away from it.
Have regular breaks away from the game and set game schedules so that you know when you’ll play and the duration. Some online bingo platforms have timer options that provide a visual cue when your time is up.
Know the signs
While games like bingo are designed to be fun, if it stops being fun it’s time to stop and take a break. Knowing the signs of a gambling addiction can help you stay safe:
- Loss of control and being unable to manage the impulse to gamble.
- A preoccupation with gambling and loss of interest in hobbies or responsibilities.
- Increasing the amount you put into a game in an attempt to recover lost bets or to experience the thrill of the game.
- A negative impact on your personal relationships.
- Hiding how much time and money you’re spending on gambling.
- Stealing money in order to gamble.
- Being in denial that you have a problem.
You might also have symptoms of anxiety and stress, along with irritability, headaches, stomach upsets.
If you’re experiencing difficulties, you can contact Gamblers Anonymous. There are also NHS services and other support systems available. When the game stops being something you feel you can manage, step away and, if you need it, get some support.
