18+ · Information
Responsible Gambling
Gambling is entertainment that has a cost. Treating it that way — rather than as a way to make money — is what separates entertainment from a problem.
Basic principles
- 18+. Access is restricted to adults.
- Play for entertainment only.
- Don't chase losses.
- Set limits on time and money.
- Don't use money needed for essential expenses.
- Gambling should not be considered a source of income.
Decide three numbers before you start
How much. The amount you could lose without it changing anything about your month.
How long. A duration fixed in advance, with a real stop time.
When you stop. An exit point, whether you're ahead or behind.
Writing them down before opening the app works better than deciding while you play.
Warning signs
None of these on its own amounts to a diagnosis. But several together, or one that keeps repeating, deserve attention.
Playing to recover
Betting again in order to make up an earlier loss, rather than for entertainment.
Going past your limits
Spending more time or money than planned as a habit rather than an exception.
Hiding the activity
Concealing how much you play or spend from family, a partner or friends.
Using committed money
Turning to funds meant for essential expenses, or borrowing in order to play.
Impact on daily life
Gambling getting in the way of work, study, rest or relationships.
Discomfort when stopping
Irritability, anxiety or restlessness when trying to cut down or stop.
Self-control tools
Authorised operators generally offer mechanisms for keeping the activity in check. They don't rely on willpower in the moment: you set them once and they act later.
- Deposit limits — daily, weekly or monthly.
- Time limits on sessions, plus duration reminders.
- Cooling-off periods that block access for a set time.
- Self-exclusion, which closes access for an extended period.
Availability and exact behaviour depend on the operator and the jurisdiction.
Finding help
If gambling has stopped being entertainment, talking about it is the most useful step. A mental health professional can help, and public assistance services for problem gambling also exist.
In the Province of Buenos Aires, the provincial lottery and gaming authority publishes responsible gambling information and assistance channels. You can also turn to your health centre, your health insurer or your family doctor.
If you're supporting someone else: this isn't about controlling their money, it's about making access to professional help easier and holding back the judgement.
Protecting minors. Access to gambling services is prohibited for anyone under 18. If you share a device, parental control tools can restrict access to this kind of content.