The Importance Of Setting Limits For Illinois Online Gambling

Illinois currently only allows online sportsbooks to operate legally, while online casinos are not yet regulated or available for gambling in the state.

Once online casinos are legalized in Illinois, all you need is a computer or mobile device with internet access. You can easily log in, sign up, and begin playing on a slot machine or blackjack table in just a few minutes. Additionally, you will have the flexibility to gamble from any location within the state of Illinois.

Because of its simplicity, it is possible to become overly absorbed in playing. This is why responsible gambling is crucial.

Gambling addiction is a real problem that impacts a large portion of our society. According to the National Council on Problem Gaming, two million adults in the US meet the criteria for severe gambling addiction each year.

While online gambling platforms offer protective measures to help prevent the development of harmful gambling habits, it ultimately falls on the individual to make use of these resources.

Despite the potential contradiction, online gambling providers are dedicated to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices among their players. They understand that customers who set voluntary limits are more likely to engage in longer gaming sessions, benefiting the industry as a whole by protecting players.

Be smart with your gambling

We all encounter the allure of quick money. Gambling, once restricted to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, has become widespread in America. Illinois sports betting websites entice users with generous rewards for signing up and offer continuous promotions to keep them coming back.

It is absolutely essential that you gamble wisely.

The abundance of options can spoil online casino players, allowing them the freedom to browse and change games until they discover one they like and start playing.

Players need to recognize that winning and losing are both part of the challenge in online casinos. They should view these platforms as a way to have fun, relax, and potentially have a successful streak.

Think of your gambling as a form of entertainment spending, similar to going to a concert, movie, or Broadway show. Just like you wouldn’t go back to the ticket booth to pay more after a movie is over, the same should be true for your gambling habits.

How the industry sets limits

Upon logging into your account, online casinos and sportsbooks provide the option to set limits, which can include:

• Deposit Limits: The highest possible sum that can be deposited into your account during a designated timeframe.
• Loss Limits: The threshold for maximum losses before disqualification.
• Time Limits refer to the length of time you are permitted to remain logged in and actively engage in gameplay.
• Betting/Wagering Limits: A set limit on the quantity and total value of bets that can be placed.

The online casino advises you to set your own limits and takes this responsibility seriously. They do not set limits for you and it is important that you approach this responsibility with seriousness.

Illinois, among other states, offers voluntary exclusion lists for individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from physical casino gambling and online betting. However, these lists are not entirely effective. One disadvantage of online gambling is the ability to remain anonymous, allowing individuals to create multiple accounts on different online casinos and avoid the consequences of being on an exclusion list.

Gamblers have the option to self-regulate with downloadable software like BeGambleAware and BetBlocker that can be easily installed on their computer.

Know when to say when

When you step into a traditional casino, you usually have a set limit in mind for how much you are willing to lose, usually the money you have on hand. However, experts advise that it is also important to think about how much you are willing to win.

Online casinos can help you set a loss limit, but you can also set a “win limit” for yourself. You may aim to walk away with a few hundred dollars or double your initial investment if luck is on your side.

When individuals start trying to make up for losses after a defeat, they often run into trouble. If luck isn’t on your side at the casino, it’s best to accept it and move on. Losing money is never fun, but betting more in an attempt to recover losses will only make matters worse.

Participating in online gambling offers access to exciting games and enticing rewards, leading us to feel the urge to test our luck from time to time. Nonetheless, placing smart bets not only supports the casino industry but also proves to be most beneficial for you.

Where in Illinois you can get help for problem gambling

If you come across a problem, here are some resources that can help you.

The NCPG offers a list of multiple locations in Illinois where individuals can seek help for problem gambling, including:

National Problem Gambling Helpline

Call: 1-800-522-4700

Text: 1-800-522-4700

Chat: ncpgambling.org/chat

and

Illinois Council on Gambling Issues

Helpline: 800.522.4700

Website: www.icpg.info

Self help resources

Gamblers Anonymous is a supportive community where individuals come together to share their stories, strengths, and hopes in order to overcome their gambling problems and help others in similar situations. Visit www.gamblersanonymous.org for more information.

Gam-Anon (www.gam-anon.org) is a support group specifically for loved ones of those dealing with compulsive gambling issues.

GamTalk (www.gamtalk.org) is an online peer support forum that is moderated and available 24/7.