Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At The Happiness Consultancy, we believe that poker and casino gaming should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. If you find yourself relying on gambling for income or to recover losses, it's time to seek help.
We are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices and supporting players who may be experiencing difficulties with their gambling.
Age Verification
All players must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in their jurisdiction to participate in gaming activities. We take age verification seriously and encourage operators to implement robust checks to prevent underage gambling.
If you are under the legal age, please do not gamble. Gaming sites should always verify your identity and age before allowing access.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of these warning signs? If so, problem gambling may be affecting you or someone you know:
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or cut back on gambling
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning your next session
- Gambling with money you can't afford to lose: Using rent, bill, or grocery money for gambling
- Relationship problems: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Making unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gambling
If you identify with any of these signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most reputable online poker and casino sites offer tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing
- Time-Out (Self-Suspension): Temporarily close your account for a period you choose (typically 24 hours to 6 weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently close your account if you feel you cannot control your gambling
- Account History: Review your betting and spending records to maintain awareness
Take advantage of these tools. They are designed to protect you and keep gaming fun and safe.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you need help, reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Free, confidential support and counselling
www.gamcare.org.uk
Phone: 0808 8020 133 (free and confidential) - GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme across all UK-regulated operators
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gamblers Anonymous — Support group and peer help
www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk - National Problem Gambling Clinic — NHS-funded treatment service
Available through referral in England
Other Countries
- Australia: Gambling Help Online
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Canada: Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org - United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
1-800-522-4700 (National Problem Gambling Helpline) - Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
www.bzga.de
All of these organisations offer free, confidential support. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You Need Help, Please Act Now
Problem gambling can escalate quickly, affecting your finances, relationships, and mental health. Whether you're struggling yourself or concerned about someone else, do not hesitate to seek support.
Many people have successfully overcome problem gambling with proper help and support. You are not alone, and recovery is possible.
Contact one of the organisations listed above today. They are there to help, and all services are confidential and non-judgmental.
The Happiness Consultancy is committed to responsible gaming. We encourage all players to gamble within their means and to use the support services available if needed. This content is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice.