Responsible Gaming

Gambling always carries the risk of losing money. This is a fundamental reality that every player must understand before placing any bet. The outcome of games is unpredictable, and no strategy can guarantee consistent wins.

Stake provides tools that help you maintain control over your betting behaviour. You can set deposit limits, loss limits, and session time reminders. These features protect your financial wellbeing and prevent impulsive decisions.

Responsible gaming means treating gambling as entertainment, not as a way to earn income. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Avoid chasing losses, as this often leads to bigger financial problems.

Take regular breaks during your gaming sessions. Step away from the screen to maintain perspective. Balance gambling with other activities in your life.

Your emotional state matters. Never gamble when you feel stressed, depressed, or under the influence of alcohol. Make decisions with a clear mind.

If you find yourself spending more time or money than intended, use the self-exclusion tools available on the platform. Seeking help early prevents serious problems from developing.

Gambling addiction is a serious condition that affects many players worldwide. Recognising the warning signs early can help you or someone you care about seek support before the problem worsens.

• You spend more money on gambling than you planned or can afford
• You feel the need to bet with increasing amounts to get the same excitement
• You become restless or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• You use gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
• You lie to family members or friends about how much you gamble
• You chase losses by gambling more to win back money you lost
• You neglect work, studies, or family responsibilities because of gambling
• You borrow money or sell possessions to fund your betting activities
• You experience financial difficulties or debt due to gambling
• You have made unsuccessful attempts to control, reduce, or stop gambling

If several of these signs apply to you, it may be time to seek professional help. Gambling addiction is treatable, and support is available.

Preventing and addressing gambling addiction requires awareness, discipline, and the right support. Stake recommends the following practical steps to maintain healthy gambling habits:

• Set strict deposit limits before you start playing and stick to them
• Create a separate budget for entertainment that does not include money needed for bills or essentials
• Use time limits to prevent extended gaming sessions that can lead to impulsive decisions
• Avoid gambling when you feel emotional, stressed, or under pressure
• Never chase losses by increasing bets or playing longer than planned
• Take regular breaks during gaming sessions to maintain perspective
• Use self-exclusion features if you feel you are losing control
• Talk to someone you trust about your gambling habits
• Keep track of the time and money you spend on betting activities
• Seek professional help immediately if you recognise signs of addiction

Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Early intervention can prevent serious financial and emotional consequences.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, professional support is available in India. These organisations provide confidential counselling, treatment programmes, and resources to help you regain control.

• Gamblers Anonymous India – Peer support groups across major cities offering free meetings and guidance for problem gamblers
• NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences) – Specialised addiction treatment and counselling services in Bangalore
• AIIMS Behavioural Addiction Clinic – Professional psychiatric support for gambling disorders in New Delhi
• BeGambleAware India – Online resources, self-assessment tools, and helpline for responsible gaming
• Mpower Mental Health – Counselling services for addiction and mental health across India
• The Banyan – Mental health and addiction support services in Tamil Nadu
• iCall Helpline – Free psychosocial counselling via phone and email for various issues including gambling addiction

Reaching out to these organisations is confidential and can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.

If you are experiencing difficulties with gambling addiction or need assistance with responsible gaming tools, Stake support is here to help you. Our team can guide you through setting limits, self-exclusion options, and other protective measures.

• Live Chat – Available 24/7 for immediate assistance with responsible gaming features
• Email Support – Contact [email protected] for detailed queries about account controls and self-exclusion
• Help Centre – Access comprehensive guides on setting deposit limits, loss limits, and session reminders
• Self-Exclusion Request – Submit a formal request through your account settings to temporarily or permanently suspend your account

Your safety and wellbeing matter to us. Do not hesitate to reach out for support at any time.