As technology rapidly evolves, so do the ways we use it for entertainment. It is no surprise that the last decade saw massive growth in the virtual casino and gambling market. These trends are set to continue in various creative avenues.

Nowadays, entire websites are dedicated to this wide array of online gambling, such as the excellent selection you can find at Norske bettingsider. That being said, increased access to gambling also brings with it the potential for increased gambling addiction. Here’s some advice on how to gamble responsibly according to expert Alexandra Nereng.

Remember: Gambling is Entertainment

This first bit of advice may seem simple. However, the way that you think about gambling, in general, has a definitive effect on how you experience it. If you look at gambling the same way you look at paying for tickets or video games, you are better off in the long run.

Gambling walks a fine line between entertainment and a way to make money; often, it is the first masquerading as the second. You wouldn’t feel comfortable re-buying the new 3D platformer every time you fell off the map, would you? Of course not!

Set Limits

This leads directly into the second piece of advice: set limits. Many sites may tell you to set limits for one thing or another, but the key is to set them for everything before you even sit down to gamble. The three most essential limits to set are wager limits, time limits, and loss limits.

Before you even sit down at your computer or physical machine, you should have a limit to the amount of money you will wager or gamble with throughout that day, even if you keep winning. You must remember that most casino games are randomised. 

Just because you’re winning now, doesn’t mean you always will. Setting limits is much easier to accomplish with in-house casinos. Carrying a finite amount of cash is much different (and less tempting) than entering your credit card information.

It is a good idea to set a loss limit on the other end of the spectrum. After a certain point of losing, you need to call it quits. There is a popular notion that you can play your way out of these types of holes, but being careful is always preferable to being broke.

Similarly, you should have a time limit for how long you’re gambling. This can be applied to all forms of entertainment; too much of anything is a bad thing. Make sure to take breaks and spend time with your family and friends. Try out new games while you’re at it!

Gamble Sober

This one is a shorter, but hard and fast rule: to gamble responsibly is to gamble sober. That isn’t to say you can’t enjoy a drink with some friends while playing cards. But if you’re serious about gambling and do it consistently, you need to keep your wits about you. All too often, substances can contribute to unwarranted confidence in this area.

All types of addiction, whether substance-related or gambling addiction, are influenced by a combination of factors. These factors include biological and psychological history and susceptibility, as well as any mental health conditions you might have. Keep tabs on your triggers.

Know When to Quit

This is, perhaps, the most difficult tip to follow as it varies from person to person. Some ways to tell if you or a loved one is addicted to the casino, online or otherwise, include:

• When thoughts of gambling become intrusive during inappropriate times 
• When you begin prioritising it over everyday responsibilities
• When it causes a strain on your relationships

Many symptoms of addiction form in ways that nobody can see from the outside or that you might not even notice yourself. Do you find yourself lacking the energy to do anything but a game? Are you uninterested in other types of entertainment? 

If any of this feels familiar to you, we implore you to check out available resources in your area for combatting addiction. It will be okay, and you are not alone. The first step to healing is self-reflection. Good luck, and stay safe!