Field guide
Responsible gambling
Practical boundaries, warning signs, and places to get help.
6 min read · Updated August 2026
01
Set hard boundaries
Treat wagering as paid entertainment, never as a recovery plan or required income. Set money and time limits before starting and do not change them in response to wins or losses.
02
Know the warning signs
Warning signs include chasing losses, hiding activity, borrowing money, missing obligations, increasing stakes for excitement, or feeling unable to stop. One serious sign is enough to take a break and ask for help.
03
Use available controls
Sportsbooks and exchanges may offer deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion. Financial institutions may offer gambling-transaction blocks. Use controls before a crisis, not only after one.
04
Get support
In the United States, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER. Outside the United States, Gambling Therapy offers international information and support. If you are in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.
- U.S.: 1-800-426-2537
- International: gamblingtherapy.org
- SportsPulse does not provide crisis counseling.