Introduction
At Borgata Online, we believe that online gambling “when done in the spirit of fun” can offer an unsurpassed level of excitement. However, when in those instances a person exhibits problem-gambling behavior, we believe it is our responsibility to offer information and assistance.
This document was created to inform customers of the perils associated with problem gambling and serve as a means of prevention to those who are at risk for developing a gambling problem.
Please take a moment to read through this information, as it will not only help you avoid excesses, but provide you with the means to maximize your enjoyment while gaming responsibly.
WHAT IS PROBLEM GAMBLING?
Like many other addictions, compulsive gambling is rooted in an uncontrollable urge and obsession, which if left unchecked, can lead to financial hardship.
Unfortunately, one of the most common symptoms of this disease is deception; problem gamblers will go to great lengths to hide the problem, not just from others, but also from themselves. As a result, detection can come late after adverse consequences are reveled and with dire consequences.
A negative vicious cycle often develops, wherein the gambler seeks relief or even a solution through increased gambling. The ensuing financial and emotional deterioration affects every aspect of a bettor's life from family and friends to business colleagues and associates.
Compulsive gambling is a disease that does not discriminate. Anyone is susceptible regardless of gender, age, race, or financial status. Fortunately, once detected, it is an addiction that can be successfully treated.
THE WARNING SIGNS:
- Sacrificing time from work or family in order to gamble
- Repeated inability to stop or control betting
- Borrowing money to gamble or to pay off previous bets
- Use of gambling as an emotional escape
- Self-neglect or neglect of family due to gambling
- Lying about time or money lost to betting
- Gambling more in order to recoup previous losses ("chasing")
- Obtaining money for gambling by selling/pawning personal property
- Feelings of hopelessness, depression or suicide
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania’s purpose is to educate and disseminate information on compulsive gambling and to facilitate referrals to help. The Pennsylvania Council provides speakers, workshops, seminars, and information on this public health problem to business, industry and labor groups, schools and colleges, health care and treatment facilities, and to community and religious organizations.
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania assists individuals in Pennsylvania who are seeking more information about, or help for, gambling problems. The CCGP manages the 24/7, free and confidential Problem Gambling Helpline in Pennsylvania. They refer all callers to the closest resources, which may include local trained clinicians, or nearby Gamblers Anonymous or Gam-Anon meetings.
Help is just a phone call away
If you or someone you know is experiencing the addiction of compulsive gambling, it's important to remember that intervention and treatment are readily available.
The Problem Gambler's Helpline is a confidential service open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is staffed by trained professionals who understand the nature of the disease and are committed to helping those in need.
Just pick up the phone and dial 1-800-GAMBLER or, log on to www.pacouncil.com.
Too much of anything can be bad for you, so we encourage all our players to know their limits and stay within them. Review the rest of this information to find out more about how we’re creating a fair and responsible gambling environment for everyone to enjoy.