Responsible gaming

For the vast majority of people, gambling is an enjoyable and recreational pastime. However, it does have the potential to be a dangerous product if not used correctly. In this sense it is similar to alcohol or food – if indulged in too much, gambling can cause serious problems.

For some people, gambling is a dangerous issue and WGM takes this issue very seriously.

This is why we recently began a series of articles on Responsible Gambling in Macau, aimed at educating people on how and where they can get help if either they or someone they know is exhibiting signs of problem gambling.

In the first of these articles, WGM spoke with Director of the Institute for the Study of Commercial Gaming at the University of Macau, Dr Davis Fong, about the causes and prevalence of problem gambling in Macau and promoting the responsible gambling message.

Shortly afterwards, we visited the Sheng Kung Hui Gambling Counseling and Family Wellness Centre – one of four treatment centres in Macau where problem gamblers can get the help they need – to provide an insight into the very important service these venues provide.

 In future issues WGM will continue to help spread the responsible gambling message, however even if you are a recreational gambler it pays to keep these key points in mind the next time you find yourself at the tables.

• Understand the risks of gambling
• The longer you gamble, the more you lose
• Set a budget for gambling
• Set a time limit for gambling
• Don’t gamble when drunk
• Don’t borrow to finance gambling
• Seek help proactively