While online gambling and sports betting can provide an exciting and enjoyable experience, we recognize that gambling can be a problem for some people. In line with our commitment to promoting responsible gambling, we offer a number of tools and resources designed to help our players take control of their gambling activities. Among these tools, self-exclusion stands out as a crucial option for those who feel they need to take a step back from gambling.
This in-depth guide explores the concept of self-exclusion, how it works in SpinBetter, and how it can be an effective tool for managing gambling behavior. We will also discuss the support available for players who choose to self-exclude and the steps in the process.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a voluntary program that allows players to block access to their game accounts for a specific period of time or permanently. This tool is designed for people who feel that their gambling behavior is becoming problematic and want to take a proactive step to prevent further harm. Self-exclusion allows players to temporarily or permanently disengage from gambling, giving them the space and time they need to regain control of their activities.
Self-exclusion is a widely recognized and effective method of dealing with gambling problems, as it helps people remove the temptation to gamble and encourages them to seek help when needed.
Why consider self-exclusion?
There are several reasons why a player might consider self-exclusion:
- Recognizing problem behavior: If you find that gambling is taking up more time and money than you can afford, or if it is causing stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions, self-exclusion can be a useful tool to address these issues.
- Preventing further harm: For players who feel they are losing control of their gambling, self-exclusion offers a way to prevent further financial and emotional harm by temporarily or permanently stopping access to gambling.
- Creating a Safe Environment: Self-exclusion allows players to disengage from the gambling environment, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives, such as work, relationships, and personal well-being.
- Finding support: For some players, self-exclusion is the first step to seeking professional help for gambling-related problems. By taking this step, players recognize the need for change and can begin to seek additional support options.
How self-exclusion works at SpinBetter
At SpinBetter, we’ve made the self-exclusion process simple and accessible so that players can easily utilize this important tool. Here’s how the self-exclusion process works:
1. Accessing the self-exclusion feature
Players can initiate the self-exclusion process directly through their SpinBetter account. To do so:
- Log in: Start by logging into your SpinBetter account using your regular credentials.
- Go to Responsible Gaming: Once logged in, go to the Responsible Gaming section of your account settings. Here you will find various tools and resources related to responsible gambling, including the option to self-exclude.
- Select Self-Exclusion: Select the Self-Exclusion option from the list. You will be presented with several options to select the length of the self-exclusion period.
2. Selecting the duration of the self-exclusion period
SpinBetter offers a flexible approach to self-exclusion duration, allowing players to choose the period that best suits their needs. The following options are typically offered:
- Temporary self-exclusion: This option allows you to exclude yourself from the game for a specific period, such as one week, one month, three months or six months. During this time, you will not be able to access your account, place bets or participate in any gaming activity.
- Permanent self-exclusion: For those who feel they need to give up gambling for a long or indefinite period of time, permanent self-exclusion is available. If you choose this option, your account will be closed and you will no longer be able to access SpinBetter services.
3. Confirming self-exclusion
After selecting your desired self-exclusion duration, you will be asked to confirm your decision. This step is very important as it ensures that you fully understand the implications of self-exclusion. Once confirmed, the self-exclusion period will begin immediately.
4. What happens during the self-exclusion period
During the self-exclusion period, a number of measures are taken to keep you from participating in gambling:
- Account Access: You will not be able to log into your SpinBetter account. This means that you will not be able to place bets, play games, make deposits or withdraw funds.
- Marketing Communications: During the self-exclusion period, SpinBetter will stop sending you marketing communications such as promotional emails, newsletters or bonus offers. This will help reduce the temptation to gamble.
- Account closure (permanent self-exclusion): If you choose permanent self-exclusion, your account will be closed and any remaining funds (subject to terms and conditions) will be returned to you. You will no longer have access to any of the SpinBetter services.
5. Canceling Self-Exclusion
It is important to note that once you have initiated self-exclusion, it cannot be canceled until the self-exclusion period has expired. This policy is in place to ensure that players stay true to their decision to stop gambling. If you choose permanent self-exclusion, the decision is final and you will not be able to reopen your account.
With temporary self-exclusion, your account will be automatically reactivated after the self-exclusion period ends. You will receive a notification that your account is active again and you will be able to log in using your existing credentials.
Benefits of self-exclusion
Self-exclusion offers a number of benefits to people who are struggling with gambling-related problems:
- Breaking the cycle: For many players, self-exclusion is a way to break the cycle of compulsive gambling. By losing access to the gambling environment, players can focus on addressing the underlying issues that contribute to their behavior.
- Takingback control: Self-exclusion empowers players to take control of their gambling activities. It establishes clear boundaries that help prevent impulsive decision-making and promote a more deliberate approach to play.
- Encourage reflection: During self-exclusion, players have the opportunity to reflect on their gaming behavior and consider how it affects their lives. This period of reflection can be crucial to making positive changes and seeking additional support when needed.
- Protecting finances: By refusing to gamble, players can protect their finances from further losses. Self-exclusion can help prevent the accumulation of debt and financial strain associated with problem gambling.
Steps to take after self-exclusion
For players who have completed a period of self-exclusion and are considering a return to gambling, it is important to approach this decision with caution. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your return to gambling is safe and responsible:
1. Reevaluate your gambling habits
Before you return to SpinBetter, take some time to reevaluate your gambling habits. Think about the reasons that prompted you to self-exclude and whether those issues have been addressed. If you are still concerned about your gambling behavior, it may be better to extend your self-exclusion or seek additional support.
2. Set limits
If you decide to return to gambling, use the responsible gambling tools available on SpinBetter to set limits on deposits, wagers, and time spent gambling. Setting these limits in advance will help you control your gambling activity and prevent a relapse into problem behavior.
3. Stay attentive
When returning to play, keep an eye on your emotions and behavior. If you notice any signs of problem gambling, such as chasing losses, spending more than you can afford, or feeling anxious about the game, take immediate action to address these issues.
4. Seek ongoing support
Even after a period of self-exclusion has ended, ongoing support can be helpful. Consider continuing to work with support organizations, counseling services, or peer groups to maintain a healthy relationship with gambling.