Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At handhygieneforhealth.org, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to engage with online pokies, please do so safely and within your means.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and do not permit access to gaming content for anyone under the legal age. If you are under 18, please do not proceed.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activities from family or friends
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Using gambling to escape from problems or negative emotions
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, please reach out for help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during your gaming session to encourage breaks and self-reflection
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
- Time-Out Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set period
Use these tools proactively to keep your gaming experience safe and enjoyable.
Support & Help Resources
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Free support for problem gamblers
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — Information and support resources
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — Helpline and referral services
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Phone: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Take Action Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please seek help today. Support is confidential, non-judgmental, and available 24/7. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your wellbeing is important to us.