Responsible Gambling in New Jersey – Resources & Best Practices

Here, at Jersey Casinos, we care about the well-being of our readers. We know that many of you visit our site to learn about NJ online casino games or to discover the best deals, promotions, and bonuses on the market. If you’ve read any of your guides, you probably noticed how we always encourage you to play and bet responsibly. Responsible gambling is the most important aspect of gambling; not the games, not even the bonuses.

It’s the capacity to keep everything under control and avoid any type of distress, financially or emotionally. You’ve all heard the saying “it’s easier to prevent than to cure”. This applies perfectly in the case of online gambling addiction. Because gambling addiction, like any type of addiction, is extremely dangerous and can ruin someone’s life if it’s not kept under control. Keep on reading to see the best resources for responsible gambling and problem gambling available in the state of New Jersey.

What is Problem Gambling?

Someone who has a gambling problem, a gambling addiction, or is a compulsive gambler is unable to control or stop a powerful urge to engage in this activity, even though their behavior negatively impacts their life or the lives of their loved ones. There is a very clear line between gambling for fun and obsessive gambling that should never be crossed. When a fun activity turns into a compulsion with serious consequences, whether it’s financially, emotionally, or mentally, it’s time to ask for help.

The first important step when it comes to fixing a problem is recognizing that a problem exists. It’s the same with problem gambling. If left unacknowledged and untreated, a gambling addiction can destroy lives. There are ways that can help anyone with a gambling problem. For example, contacting a gambling addiction hotline the moment you realize you might be having a gambling problem can help a lot. 

Problem Gambling Symptoms

As with any addictions, illnesses, or disorders, in order to properly diagnose it, you need to recognize the symptoms that can help identify the issue. Gambling addiction, which is also referred to as compulsive or pathological gambling, comes with its own set of symptoms. It’s very important to pay attention to these symptoms because it’s one of the first steps if you want to know how to stop a gambling problem. Some of the symptoms of gambling addiction are more obvious than others.

The Most Common Problem Gambling Symptoms:

After a new responsible gambling policy has been launched in the state, legal NJ online casino sites are now using advanced technology to monitor bettors’ activity on their platforms and identify early signs of problem gambling. This means, that in the event you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms while on the gambling operator’s platform or mobile app, you will receive automated outreach regarding responsible gambling and a list of helpful resources.

NJ Casinos Responsible Gambling Initiatives

New Jersey casinos are leading the charge in promoting responsible gambling, especially during March, recognized as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. FanDuel Casino NJ‘s recent partnership with Kindbridge Behavioral Health marks a significant step forward. They’re offering free mental health assessments and support to those who’ve stepped back from gambling for their well-being.

This Fanduel responsible gaming initiative offers free mental health services to individuals who have chosen to self-exclude from gambling. It aims to provide immediate support through telehealth, focusing on those facing gambling challenges. Moreover, FanDuel’s generous donations of $300,000 to key organizations reflect their dedication to making gambling safer across New Jersey, showcasing a broader effort to tackle gambling issues head-on.

Responsible Gambling & Problem Gambling Resources in New Jersey

If you recognize any of the symptoms we mentioned above and you feel you might need gambling addiction help, there are some important resources to check out. There’s absolutely no shame in asking for help if you’re experiencing a gambling problem. Recognizing the issue is the first step in trying to fix it. Fortunately, there are a few resources for those who want to learn how to practice responsible gambling or if they want to receive help for gambling addiction.

1-800-Gambler Helpline

800-Gambler is a nonprofit organization specializing in offering assistance to people interested in finding gambling addiction help. Their mission is to educate, outreach, train, counsel, and treat problem gambling. On their website, there are many useful articles, lectures, workshops, and brochures for anyone looking to educate themselves on responsible gambling. The council offers a free gambling addiction hotline that is available 24/7 for players who seek phone and text assistance and counseling in strict confidence. By visiting the website, you can also get help from a live chat operator.

National Council on Problem Gambling

Another very useful resource for those who seek help for gambling addictions is the National Council on Problem Gambling. Also referred to as NCPG, this organization offers links for people living in the state of New Jersey. It also provides self-screening tools designed to identify any issues concerning gambling behavior patterns. There is also a gambling addiction hotline you can call and text by dialing 1-800-522-4700. If you are interested in chat assistance with a real operator, visit the official website and use the live chat feature.

Gamblers Anonymous for Responsible Gambling

If you’re looking for gambling problem help and want to remain anonymous, the Gamblers Anonymous national group is a great resource. It offers confidential support meetings on how to stop gambling addiction. The group also provides a national gambling addiction hotline which can be reached by dialing 1-855-222-5542. The website provides lists of where you can find support group meetings depending on your location.

GamTalk

If you’ve concluded that you have a problem with online gambling New Jersey, we advise you to try GamTalk. This is a community where people gather in chat rooms to share stories regarding their problem gambling and how they managed to recover from it. The members support each other and offer advice to whoever is in need. This can be very helpful for anyone interested in practicing responsible gambling and avoiding any behavior that can lead to addiction.

Gam-Anon

Gam-Anon was created for the family members, spouse, or friends of players who have a gambling problem. If you’re concerned that one of your loved ones is not practicing responsible gambling and cannot keep things under control, check out this organization. On their website, you can learn more about how to identify problem gambling and a lot of other useful information.

Self-help Resources for Gambling Addiction

Self-help resources can be a more efficient alternative for someone experiencing a gambling problem. You might feel more comfortable talking to people who go through the same things as you and you can learn valuable lessons from their struggles with gambling addiction. Preventing a gambling addiction always begins with responsible gambling, but in the event, that the line has already been crossed, admitting the problem and looking to solve it are the first crucial steps.

Self-Exclusion Program – What Is It & How Does It Work?

If you think that you cannot practice responsible gambling or are looking for ways how to stop a gambling addiction, a self-exclusion program could be a useful solution. This is a request that bettors from New Jersey can file for to get banned from online gambling and from playing casino games in Atlantic City, or any other state where this activity is legal. Because this is a self-exclusion program, only the person who experiences a gambling problem can file the request. Friends or family members do not have the option to apply for this. The self-exclusion ban can be set for different periods, from one year to five years, or even for life. You can file the request on any licensed online gambling platform in the state. 

Alternatively, you can enroll in the self-exclusion program, by visiting the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement’s (NDJGE) website and filling out an online form or by downloading a paper application form and mail it in physical format. It’s important to note that the self-exclusion program is a serious commitment and you should only consider it if you believe you have a gambling problem. The NJDGE also provides resources and information for problem gambling, including a 24/7 confidential hotline.

Underage Gambling

The legal gambling age in the US varies by state. In New Jersey, the age limit for online gambling is 21. This is a very important aspect of promoting responsible gambling. Since it’s a criminal offense, New Jersey casinos take this very seriously and do not allow individuals under the age of 21 to take part in online or mobile wagering. They prevent underage gambling by verifying all the customers right from the first stages of creating the player account. The identity verification is done by providing the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SNN) or copies of government-issued documents, such as a driver’s license or bank statements to prove the player’s age.

How to Avoid Problem Gambling & Bet Responsibly

Online gambling should always be about having fun. Of course, the winning element also plays an important role. However, when winning becomes an obsession and it’s no longer about having a good time, it can turn into problem gambling. To avoid developing a gambling problem, there are some important things to take into consideration. Here are some key considerations that can help you avoid developing a gambling problem and engage in safe and enjoyable online gambling:

Our Promise to You

Addictions of any kind are a very serious matter and it’s crucial to seek help as soon as possible. Our team cares about the well-being of our readers and we encourage you to always practice responsible gambling, as well as to reach out to specialists if things get out of control. We promote only licensed New Jersey casinos that take this matter seriously. Moreover, we include valuable resources in every review, guide, and informative article to ensure you are reminded of the importance of this subject. We cannot stress enough the importance of responsible gambling in having a healthy and fun online gambling experience.

FAQ  

Do I have a gambling problem?

Common symptoms of problem gambling include obsessive thinking about gambling, feeling shame and guilt after a betting session, as well as overspending time and money on this activity. Seek support and professional help if gambling starts to affect any aspect of your life.

How do I get placed on the self-exclusion list?

If you want to stop gambling addiction through a self-exclusion program, you can do so on the casino’s website. Go to My Account, click on the option that says Responsible Gambling, and file a request. To get a permanent self-exclusion, you need to file the request at the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.

Can I place a family member with a gambling problem on the list?

Because it is a self-exclusion program, only the person who is experiencing the gambling problem can file the request to be placed on the list.

What should I do if I have a gambling problem?

The first thing to do is realize that you are not gambling responsibly and you need help. Many organizations in New Jersey can help you with this problem, such as 888-Gambler. You can also get help from support groups like Gamblers Anonymous and GamTalk.

Can a gambler ever stop?

Gambling addiction can be treated through a combination of personal willpower and seeking professional help. It’s very important to first acknowledge that one has a gambling problem in order to start treating the condition.  Don’t forget that responsible gambling can help avoid any type of behavior that can turn someone into a compulsive gambler.