Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Dr Bruce Munroe, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be considered as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. When you play at Stake or any other online casino, you should only spend money that you can afford to lose without affecting your essential living expenses.
If you find yourself gambling to make money or recover losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Australia is only legal for persons aged 18 years and over. By accessing gambling sites like Stake, you confirm that you are of legal age to do so in your jurisdiction. If you are under 18, please do not gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money you spend gambling from family and friends
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop gambling or stick to set limits
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning your next session
- Gambling with Borrowed Money: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed funds to gamble
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Increasing Stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Financial Problems: Struggling to pay bills or experiencing financial hardship
- Relationship Strain: Conflicts with family members or loved ones about gambling
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos, including Stake, offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount you can lose in a given period
- Time Limits: Set session timers to remind you when you've been gambling for a certain period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently ban yourself from accessing gambling sites
- Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling entirely
Take advantage of these features. They exist to protect you and help you maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 (free call, 24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free and confidential support for problem gambling
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Resources and support for Canadian gamblers
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Information and support on problem gambling prevention
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and help is available. You are not alone. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact one of the support organisations listed above. They offer free, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance.
Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can regain control of your life.
At Dr Bruce Munroe, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming and the wellbeing of our community. We encourage all players to gamble safely and within their means.