Naughty or nice, always play within your means
Le Santa brings a sleigh-load of fun and should stay exactly that. Gambling can pile up quietly, like snow on the roof, until it is a weight. If the game starts costing you money, sleep, or time with the people you love, park the sleigh and talk to someone. Confidential help stays open through the night.
Decide what you can afford to give before the first spin, then stick to your list.
Give each session a curfew so a quick visit doesn't last all night.
Trying to win back a loss usually leaves you further out in the cold. Walk away.
Take a breather between rounds. A rested mind makes the nicer choice.
Take a moment and answer truthfully. These six questions are based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Answering “yes” to two or more is good reason to contact one of the organizations listed above.
Have you bet more than you could afford to lose in the past 12 months?
Have you needed to gamble with larger amounts of money to get the same feeling of excitement?
Have you gone back another day to try to win back money you lost?
Have you borrowed money or sold anything to get money to gamble?
Have you felt that you might have a problem with gambling?
Has gambling caused you any health problems, including stress or anxiety?
This is not a diagnostic tool. For professional assessment, contact GamCare (0808 8020 133) or your local gambling helpline.
