Responsible Gambling
At Houston Greeters, we believe gambling should be an enjoyable form of entertainment — not a source of financial stress or personal hardship. We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and providing resources for anyone who may need support.
Need Help? You're Not Alone
National Council on Problem Gambling — Confidential, 24/7
1-800-522-4700Call or text for free, confidential support
Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following behaviors in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
- Chasing losses by increasing bets to recover money
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Lying to family or friends about gambling activity
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, depression, or other problems
Tips for Gambling Responsibly
- Set a budget before you play. Decide how much you can afford to lose and stick to it. Never chase losses.
- Set time limits. Use a timer or alarm to remind yourself to take breaks. Extended sessions impair decision-making.
- Don't gamble under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and lead to poor decisions.
- Use casino tools. Most reputable casinos offer deposit limits, loss limits, session time limits, and self-exclusion options. Use them.
- Never borrow to gamble. If you don't have the money in your entertainment budget, don't play.
- Take regular breaks. Step away frequently. If you're frustrated or emotional, stop playing.
- Understand the odds. The house always has an edge. Gambling is not a reliable way to make money.
- Keep gambling separate from other activities. Don't let gambling replace socializing, hobbies, or family time.
Self-Exclusion and Casino Tools
All reputable online casinos offer tools to help you manage your gambling. We recommend activating these features when you create your account:
- Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit caps
- Loss limits: Set maximum loss amounts per session or time period
- Session time limits: Receive alerts or get logged out after a set playing time
- Cool-off periods: Temporarily block access to your account for days or weeks
- Self-exclusion: Permanently or semi-permanently close your account
Support Resources
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
Free, confidential helpline available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat.
Phone/Text: 1-800-522-4700
Website: ncpgambling.org
Gamblers Anonymous
A fellowship of people who share their experience to help others recover from gambling problems.
Website: gamblersanonymous.org
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referrals and information service for substance abuse and mental health.
Phone: 1-800-662-4357
Website: samhsa.gov
Underage Gambling Prevention
Online gambling is strictly for adults aged 18 and older (21+ in some jurisdictions). If you are a parent or guardian concerned about underage gambling, consider using internet filtering software such as:
- Net Nanny
- CyberPatrol
- GamBlock (specifically designed to block gambling sites)
