Responsible play

Skill only shows over a very long run. A winning player can still be behind after thousands of hands: the variance and bankroll explainer shows it happening. And the rake takes money out of the game, so the table as a whole loses over time.

Only play with money you can afford to lose, and decide your limit before you sit down.

• Chasing losses: playing on, or raising the stakes, to win money back.
• Playing longer or for more than you meant to.
• Borrowing, or using money meant for something else.
• Hiding how much you play, or feeling restless when you don’t.

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth talking to someone. These services are free and confidential.

• Anywhere: Gamblers Anonymous. Free meetings worldwide, in person and online. gamblersanonymous.org ↗
• India: Tele-MANAS. The government’s free, 24-hour mental health helpline, which covers addiction: call 14416 or 1-800-891-4416. India has no national helpline for gambling alone. telemanas.mohfw.gov.in ↗
• United Kingdom: GamCare, National Gambling Helpline. Free, 24 hours a day: 0808 8020 133, live chat or WhatsApp. gamcare.org.uk ↗
• United States: 1-800-GAMBLER. Free, 24 hours a day: call 1-800-426-2537, text 800GAM, or chat online. 1800gamblerchat.org ↗
• Elsewhere: Find a Helpline. Free, confidential helplines by country and topic, including gambling. findahelpline.com ↗

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call your local emergency number.

Real-money gambling is restricted by age everywhere and illegal in some places. Check the law where you live before you play for money.