Responsible Gaming – Commitment to your Safety

What is gambling addiction?

Gambling addiction is a chronic and progressive disease characterized by an uncontrollable desire to participate in games of chance, despite the negative consequences.

Why is gambling addiction dangerous?

Addiction can lead to financial problems, the destruction of relationships, legal issues, as well as psychological and physical disorders.

What are the symptoms of gambling addiction?

Symptoms include constant thoughts about gambling, increasing the amount of time and money spent gambling, the inability to stop, and feelings of anxiety or irritability when trying to reduce gambling time.

What is responsible gambling?

Responsible gambling can help avoid addiction problems. By following these simple steps, you can always enjoy gambling without risk to yourself and your loved ones:

• Always set time and money limits before you start gambling. This will allow you to control how much time and money you spend gambling.
• Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Don't use the money you need to pay bills or buy medicine, and don't borrow to gamble.
• If you lose money, don't try to win it back immediately. It's better to rest and regain focus than to risk further losses.
• Play for fun, not to win money. Remember that in the long run, the casino always wins.
• Don't gamble under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol can impair your ability to make sound decisions.
• Be wary of emails advertising bonuses. They can encourage you to gamble more frequently.
• Don't chase rewards from loyalty programs, especially if this requires you to risk large sums of money.
• Play responsibly and stop gambling when it's no longer fun. If you notice signs of addiction, don't hesitate to seek help.

Where to look for help?

There are several reputable organizations and resources in India that provide help for gambling addiction. Here are the main ones:

1. State and National Resources

National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) - Addiction Cell:

• Role: Nodal government body that coordinates prevention and treatment of addictions (including gambling).
• Resources: Provides information, resources, lists of certified rehabilitation centers.
• Website: https://www.nisd.gov.in/
• Key program: "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan" (Drug Free India Campaign) - covers various addictions.

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW):

• Role: Has sections and initiatives on mental health and addictions.
• Resources: Information, sometimes resource lists or helpline numbers.
• Website: https://main.mohfw.gov.in/

2. Specialized NGO/Organizations for Addiction Treatment

SPYM (Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses):

• Role: Large NGO working on drug, alcohol and gambling addiction. Offers counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, harm reduction programs.
• Website: http://www.spym.org/

Kripa Foundation:

• Role: One of the largest and oldest NGO in India, specializing in treating all types of addictions (chemical and behavioral, including gambling) across the country. Uses a multimodal approach.
• Website: https://kripafoundation.org/

Sangath:

• Role: A reputable NGO focusing on mental health issues. Although their primary focus is broader, they do deal with addiction issues and may provide counseling or referrals.
• Website: https://sangath.in/

Indian Society for the Prevention of Substance Abuse (ISSUP - India Chapter):

• Role: Part of a global network of addiction treatment specialists. The site can be useful for finding resources and specialists in India.
• Website: https://www.issup.net/

3. Helplines and Hotlines

National Mental Health Helpline (KIRAN):

• Number: 1800-599-0019
• Role: A toll-free 24-hour helpline providing support and counselling on mental health issues including stress, anxiety, depression, addictions (including gambling).

Ministry of Health Drug Helpline (Vandrevala Foundation):

• Number: 1860-266-2345 (24/7) / +91 7304 82 82 82 (WhatsApp)
• Role: Provides confidential counseling and support on various addictions.

4. International organizations with presence/resources in India

Gamblers Anonymous (GA):

• Role: Global community of mutual aid based on the 12-step model. There are groups in India (mainly in large cities).
• Website: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/.
• Important: Primary resource - local meetings.

5. Additional resources (often with strong community support)

Ramakrishna Mission:

• Role: Large spiritual and social organization. Many of its centers across India offer mental health counseling and addiction support, often free or at low cost.
• Website: https://belurmath.org/.

Key points when seeking help in India:

• Regional specificity: Availability and quality of services can vary greatly by state and city. Large cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata) usually have more options.
• Holistic approach: Many centers treat both chemical (alcohol, drugs) and non-chemical (gambling) addictions together.
• Helplines: Often the quickest and most accessible first step for counseling and referral to local services (KIRAN, Vandrevala).
• Confidentiality and stigma: Awareness of addiction is growing, but stigma still exists. Look for organizations with a clear privacy policy.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction in India, it is highly recommended that you contact the KIRAN (1800-599-0019) or Vandrevala (1860-266-2345) helpline. They will be there to listen, provide first aid, and refer you to the most appropriate local services or professionals. Help is available, and the first step to recovery is to seek it.