Responsible Gaming
The online gaming market has always been very dynamic, and when the Covid-19 pandemic broke out in 2020, the demand for online games among players increased significantly. Entering the market at this sensitive time, Online Games Singapore is fully aware that this is both an opportunity for its website to reach more players and an important moment to focus on building responsible gaming habits to align more closely with the goal of creating a healthy gaming community in Singapore.
So specifically, what is responsible gaming, how can we practice responsible gaming, and are there any tools to support players? Let’s find out more in the article below.
Our Commitment to Safe Gambling
Creating a safe and entertaining gaming experience is our top priority at Online Games Singapore. We guarantee player safety by closely adhering to laws including the Remote Gambling Act. By providing players with tools and resources to help them control their gaming habits, we actively promote responsible gambling in addition to compliance. In order to promote a happy and healthy gaming experience, we are also committed to informing users about the hazards and offering assistance to those in need.
Identifying Problem Gambling Behavior
Recognizing and resolving the warning indicators of problem gambling behavior is one of the first stages in assuring responsible gaming. An inability to manage one’s gambling tendencies can result in problem gambling, also known as gambling addiction or compulsive gambling, which can have detrimental effects on one’s emotional, social, and financial well-being.
There are several signs that indicate a person may be struggling with problem gambling. These include:
- Chasing Losses: Continually gambling in an attempt to recover losses, which often leads to more significant financial strain.
- Spending More Time and Money: Increasing the amount of time and money spent on gambling, even when it begins to affect other areas of life.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Avoiding personal or professional responsibilities in favor of gambling.
- Lying About Gambling Habits: Concealing the extent of gambling activities from friends, family, or colleagues.
- Emotional Distress: Feeling anxious, depressed, or stressed as a result of gambling, and using gambling as a way to cope with emotions.
Self-Exclusion & Betting Limits
Self-Exclusion
A voluntary option for players at risk of gambling problems, allowing them to take a break or permanently exclude themselves from online gaming. In Singapore, operators offer self-exclusion programs per regulatory requirements. Ranging from temporary suspensions to permanent bans, players cannot access accounts or receive communications during this period. This measure aids players in taking controlled breaks and managing gambling habits responsibly.
Betting Limits
Betting limits are crucial for responsible gambling. By setting personal limits on money or time spent, players can prevent excessive gambling and financial harm. Online gambling platforms in Singapore offer deposit limits, session time limits, and bet limits to keep players within their comfort zones. These limits, adjustable to individual preferences, help maintain a safe and enjoyable gaming experience. They serve as self-regulation tools, aiding in controlling gaming habits and reducing the risk of gambling problems.
Responsible Gaming Tools & Resources
In addition to self-exclusion and betting limits, Online Games Singapore offers a range of tools and resources to help players manage their gambling activities. These tools are designed to support responsible gaming practices and empower players to make informed decisions about their gambling behavior.
Reality Checks
Many online platforms offer “reality check” features, which remind players about how long they have been playing and how much money they have spent. These pop-up notifications appear at regular intervals and encourage players to take a break, reassess their gambling habits, and make conscious decisions about continuing to play.
Game History & Account Monitoring
Access to game history and account monitoring features allows players to review their gambling activities, including the amount spent, time played, and the number of bets placed. These insights can help players track their gaming habits and make adjustments if they feel they are engaging in excessive gambling.
Gambling Addiction Awareness Campaigns
Operators also provide resources and raise awareness about the risks of gambling addiction. These campaigns may include educational materials, informational videos, and articles designed to help players understand the signs of gambling addiction and learn how to seek help if needed.
Support for Problem Gamblers
For those who are struggling with problem gambling, support is readily available in Singapore. There are several helplines and organizations that offer confidential assistance to individuals who need help managing their gambling behavior.
Helplines
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in Singapore provides a dedicated helpline for individuals affected by problem gambling. The NCPG offers free, confidential support, counseling, and referrals to specialized treatment services. Players who are concerned about their gambling habits can call the helpline for advice and guidance on how to address the issue.
In addition to the NCPG helpline, other organizations and services, including Gamblers Anonymous, provide 24/7 support for individuals dealing with gambling addiction. These services are confidential, and trained counselors are available to offer guidance, support, and treatment options.
Support Organizations
Several organizations in Singapore specialize in supporting individuals with gambling problems and their families. The NCPG provides counseling services and operates treatment programs that are designed to address the emotional and psychological aspects of gambling addiction. These services are aimed at helping individuals regain control of their lives and rebuild their relationships.
Support organizations also work to raise awareness about the social consequences of gambling addiction and offer preventative measures to reduce the risk of gambling problems from developing in the first place.
By providing comprehensive support, these organizations play a vital role in assisting individuals who may be struggling with gambling-related issues, ensuring that help is always available when needed.