What Are the Pitfalls of Self-Exclusion, and How Can You Prepare Yourself for Them?

Self-exclusion Isn't the Silver Bullet Many Are Led to Believe  

The mechanism of self-exclusion falls into each of the stages of responsible gambling – yet it depends how the operator delivers and upholds the exclusion. The late economist and gambling expert, Bill Eadington, proposed four Stages of Responsible Gambling: Denial, Lip Service, Halfway House and Full Commitment.<h2>What Is Self-Exclusion?</h2>Self-exclusion is the process by which an individual can ban themselves from a site (or in some cases, a network of sites under an operator), restricting access to the iGaming platform. This has come to be a requirement of operators and, although a necessary option, the way it tends to be implemented is inherently flawed.In the first instance, problem gamblers can often bypass their own self-exclusion. A new [email] address and a common name can enable self-excluded gamblers to re-register and continue betting. However, even if a player observes the self-exclusion, what’s to stop a self-excluded individual from moving on to one of thousands of other online gambling sites?From a player’s perspective, there isn’t much that differentiates one gambling site from another, so excluding a problem gambler from one platform does not tackle the issue, especially as operators are vying to attract new players with sign up bonuses and incentives. Industry-wide self-exclusion requires operators en-masse to sign up and participate.Alas, not all operators do.<h2>Why Tools Along With Self-Exclusion Can Be Affective</h2>A combination of registering with a national self-exclusion scheme – gamstop for those in the UK – and blocking software, such as Gamban, can be extremely effective at enforcing self-exclusion and improving overall industry sustainability.The industry must recognise collectively that ‘passing the buck’ or allowing individuals to sign up to other sites, is unsustainable and that the actions of the least responsible affect the reputation of the most responsible.It is conceivable that there’s a competitive ‘disadvantage’ that comes with acting responsibly. Doing the ‘right thing’ should not result in competitor absconsion.One operator, aligned with Gamban, explained that in offering Gamban protection to their players who presented with problems, the results were remarkable; aggression was replaced by gratitude – and support agents were able to respond with actionable solutions to uphold self-exclusion. This has a positive effect, not only on the individuals struggling to control their online gambling but on the morale of the team and an industry that struggles to control its reputation.Learn more about Self-exclusion <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">here</a>.

Flaws Uncovered in Online Self-exclusion Scheme

The mechanism of self-exclusion falls into each of the stages of responsible gambling. From a player’s perspective, there isn’t much that differentiates one gambling site from another.

Self-reflective Questions for Those at Risk with Online Gambling

Ask yourself the following questions and consider the effect gambling has on you and the people around you.

Ask yourself the following questions, and reflect on your relationship with gambling. <ul><li>Are you preoccupied with gambling?</li><li>Do you forget everything else when you gamble or think about gambling?</li><li>Do you need to bet more money more frequently in order to experience the same excitement?</li><li>Do you become restless or irritated when you have to leave a game?</li><li>Do you often gamble to escape worries or troubles?</li><li>Are you more preoccupied with gambling than you or your family and friends find reasonable?</li><li>Are you convinced that happiness will be yours, or that all your financial problems will be solved if only your winnings were big enough?</li><li>Do you feel that it’s only a matter of patience, a question of perseverance before it’s your turn to be lucky?</li><li>After losing, do you feel the need to return as soon as possible and win back your losses?</li><li>Do you lie in order to hide your gambling activities from your family and friends?</li><li>Have you ever committed an illegal act, e.g. credit card fraud, theft or embezzlement, to finance your habit?</li><li>Have you lost, or risked losing your friends or your job, or been forced to drop out of your education, because of gambling?</li><li>Have you been forced to rely on others, e.g. family, friends or an institution, to solve the financial difficulties which result from your gambling?</li><li>Have you tried repeatedly to bring your gambling under control, or to stop completely, without success?</li></ul>If you feel some additional help alongside Gamban would be helpful, please visit our Get Help page for links to valuable resources and other <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">self-exclusion schemes</a>.Gamban can help you overcome your gambling habits, but don't just take our word for it, find out what others have said about the software below. <h3>Feedback on Gamban…</h3><blockquote>“If gamban was available then it could have helped my son Ryan, who tragically committed suicide because of a gambling addiction that was allowed to spiral out of control by an uncaring industry. The industry should be made to offer gamban to their customers if they become addicted.” John Myers</blockquote><blockquote>“Despite promises to introduce a system where addicted gamblers can ban themselves from all online gambling sites, the industry is still dragging its heels. That’s why gamban® must be made available to everyone who needs it.” Carolyn Harris MP</blockquote><blockquote>“I want to thank you for creating this software. The fact that you’ve made it so affordable really shows how much you care about helping people with gambling problems. I have recently installed your software as an aid to prevent problem gambling and it’s been effective so far.” Gamban user</blockquote><blockquote>“Completely out the way, but nice to know the temptation is removed… I’m free” Gamban user</blockquote><blockquote>“I am so happy to have gamban on my android phone. It gives me a feeling of security from this horrible addiction I will help you in any way I can as I am so grateful to you for this. Thanks again for the help.” Gamban user</blockquote><blockquote>“Thank you so much. Such value for money. I am really pleased, I started to feel that something that started as fun was becoming addictive. Luckily I am stopping this now before it gets too out of control.” Gamban user</blockquote><blockquote>“Thanks again for the great programme, I think it has helped me a lot.” Gamban user</blockquote><blockquote>“I continue to be grateful to gamban and you in particular for your help and support. It is most appreciated. I can’t do it on my own!” Gamban user</blockquote>More feedback: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/gamban.com">https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/gamban.com</a>

Are You At Risk From Online Gambling?

Self-reflective questions for those at risk with online gambling. Have you tried repeatedly to bring your gambling under control, or to stop completely, without success?

Let’s Put All Available Self-Exclusion Tools in Place

Despite Its Flaws, Self-Exclusion Schemes Can Be a Powerful Recovery Tool When Used along Side with Other Tools

Gambling addiction is a serious problem in many countries. Although this is something that many associates with land-based casinos and high street betting shops, increased access to online betting caused the rate of addiction to explode in recent years. The increased access and less-tangible oversight of remote betting did not change any of the fundamental causes or contributing factors of addiction. It merely expanded upon a pre-existing social issue to which most countries are slow to react.Currently, users are forced to rely primarily on self-control to manage their behaviour, doing their best to ignore aggressive advertising, emails from operators offering a huge bonus, the machines available at the local pub, and everything else that pushes them into some sort of gambling. That means hundreds of thousands of victims of addiction are fighting–and often losing–an uphill battle.Managing problem gambling effectively demands supplementary assistance to provide a firm barrier between victims and opportunities to gamble.<h3>Background &amp; research</h3>Online gambling represented approximately 35% of total market share in the UK betting industry in 2018. This demonstrates incredible growth in the last decade. Data published by the UK Government shows total online spending grew from £816.86 million annually in 2008 to £4.9 billion in 2018. Total revenue generated by gaming software increased by 172% between 2015 and 2016 alone.Unfortunately, rates of addiction have kept pace right alongside this fast-growing business sector. According to the UK Gambling Commission, more than 2 million people in the UK are either current problem gamblers or are at medium to high risk of addiction. Of that subset, roughly 430,000 people are already victims of a serious betting habit. But it could be even worse. Those who help treat problem gambling often tell us that in their experience, it is far worse than what these figures show.The problem is also spreading to a wider range of individuals. Although according to the UK Gambling Commission, “men are 7.5 times more likely than women to be classed as problem gamblers,” the Gambling Commission’s data shows gambling on the rise across every demographic. The increase in gambling addiction is especially prominent among younger (16-24 year old) players, whose lack of experience and self-control can compound the problem. Additionally, while only 4% of the nation’s population gamble online, the percentage of at-risk gamblers who do is almost 35%. This places the overall rate of problem gambling in online betting at 10.6% of usersClearly, something needs to be done.<h3>What about gambling self-exclusion?</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">Self-exclusion</a> is the key means of mitigating the impact of problem gambling. And, on a positive note, the number of gamblers choosing to exclude themselves from online gambling companies is on the rise, as the most recent data from the UK Gambling Commission shows.The total number of self-exclusions in online gambling: <ul><li>Nov 2014 – Mar 2015: 179,142</li><li>Apr 2015 – Mar 2016: 612,427</li><li>Apr 2016 – Mar 2017: 1,117,322</li><li>Oct 2016 – Sep 2017: 1,309,740</li></ul>Unfortunately, it’s not all good news. A growing number of cases has been reported where a breach of self-exclusion has happened. This can happen because the technology has failed because the operator didn’t honour the self-exclusion request, or simply because the player found a way to circumvent the self-exclusion process.The total number of known breaches of self-exclusions in online gambling:<ul><li>Nov 2014 – Mar 2015: 12,576</li><li>Apr 2015 – Mar 2016: 36,992</li><li>Apr 2016 – Mar 2017: 73,715</li><li>Oct 2016 – Sep 2017: 86,800</li></ul>The key issue is clear: as interest in online gambling grows, so does problem gambling, as well as breaches of self-exclusion. Gambling addiction is already a serious problem, but reliance on traditional self-exclusion alone is not a reliable solution. A more comprehensive solution is clearly required.<h3>Effective self-exclusion for problem gambling</h3>Problem gamblers need help, and operators are well-positioned to provide the necessary assistance. Online gambling websites have a moral responsibility to engage in harm-reduction best practices, and it’s often while on their websites, that players take the decision to reach out for help. Beyond that, though, operators also have a clear business interest to ensure safe play.Preemptive action by businesses has long been seen as an alternative to enforced regulation. While this does involve some minor investments, the amounts are minimal when compared with the alternative.For example, failing to act in the face of rising instances of problem gambling is likely to lead to greater scrutiny of the industry. Government regulatory bodies may enforce stricter control over the sector, leading to greater fines and penalties for operators. We are seeing this already in the UK, where the regulator issued several fines, and of record amounts, over the past months. This will damage further the reputation of the industry, creating a negative media and public impression of gambling in general, and ultimately, threatening the industry’s sustainability. As increased breaches of self-exclusion techniques underscore, there is a need for more than one approach.A loose variety of different tools and strategies cannot guarantee greater protection. In fact, deploying technologies in an uncoordinated or haphazard manner may cause tools to overlap or interfere with one another, creating additional vulnerabilities that operators hadn’t anticipated. These tools need to work in a coordinated, targeted manner to have the greatest effect.First, we should identify three key points at which the individual online gambler is at risk:The Person: The individual who gambles.The Device: The medium through which the individual plays.The Money: The funds used to fuel the gamble.A working, comprehensive strategy for problem gambling will block users access at each point of vulnerability. We recommend you deploy a unique exclusion tool at each of these points:<h3>The Person</h3>Encourage users to enrol in GamStop. This nonprofit service allows users to exclude themselves from a growing number of UK gambling operators, based on user identity.<h3>The Device</h3>Blocking the device itself from accessing gambling websites is what tools like Gamban do. A growing number of gambling operators and support organisations is distributing Gamban licences to their customers and service users. The software is also available for purchase online, directly at Gamban’s website.<h3>The Money</h3>Working with banks like Monzo and Starling can give users the power to block transactions to their players’ accounts. This way, they cannot fund their gambling account, preventing them from playing.Comprehensive blocking is the most effective solution available offering immediate access by players and operators. The strategies recommended above showcase demonstrated, long-term effectiveness when deployed as part of a unified front against problem gambling.There are many other necessary steps in the process to provide genuine consumer protection against problem gambling, including education as well as more dynamic and responsive regulation. However, providing customers with the ability to exclude themselves–and make that exclusion more reliable and difficult to trick–is a critical first step.For more information about Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Scheme <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">read on here</a>.<h3>Sources:</h3><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news-action-and-statistics/Statistics-and-research/Statistics/Industry-statistics.aspx">https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news-action-and-statistics/Statistics-and-research/Statistics/Industry-statistics.aspx</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://data.gov.uk/dataset/e7032815-5990-4439-b5c8-8553cf5b7fdd/uk-gambling-industry-statistics">https://data.gov.uk/dataset/e7032815-5990-4439-b5c8-8553cf5b7fdd/uk-gambling-industry-statistics</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/PDF/survey-data/Gambling-behaviour-in-Great-Britain-2015.pdf">https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/PDF/survey-data/Gambling-behaviour-in-Great-Britain-2015.pdf</a>http://tuck-fac-cen.dartmouth.edu/images/uploads/faculty/andrew-king/selfreg.pdf

Is Self-Excluding from online Gambling the right choice for me?

Let’s put all available self-exclusion tools in place. Managing problem gambling effectively demands supplementary assistance to provide a firm barrier between victims and opportunities to gamble.

What Can You Do, to Give Yourself the Best Chance of Recovery?

Tips for Those Asking How to Stop Gambling

Gamban has been designed by people (gamblers) with first-hand experience in problem gambling. While our primary focus is software development and creating practical barriers to online gambling, we wanted to share some of our own ideas for recovery and minimising the risk of gambling relapse.<h2>Gamban can remove the gambling temptation</h2>Before we started Gamban we heard stories of people freezing credit cards in blocks of ice to create a ‘temptation buffer’ and a lady who, knowing she’d gamble only on weekends, would send her payment cards in the post to herself on a Friday, so they would arrive on Monday. We experimented with parental control systems where a friend was needed to look after a code and we explored other, more expensive and restrictive gambling-blocking software. We hope, with Gamban, you don’t feel you need to resort to these methods. We also hope, in time, that you don’t even need Gamban. We see Gamban as a tool that can help people on their path to recovery, quite possibly alongside other forms of treatment. Like the dating site, Match.com famously celebrate drop-offs in user numbers as a sign that people are finding love, we like to think that those who no longer require our software are out of the ‘danger zone’. That said, many choose to keep Gamban on their systems for ongoing peace of mind. After all, the cost of Gamban is negligible compared to the cost of online gambling addiction.Here are some ideas that you may find helpful:<h3>A new email address</h3>You may continue to receive gambling-related emails and enticing 500% bonus offers after closing your account. It may be easier to start using a different ‘clean’ email address. Give yourself a fresh start – but don’t forget to update your Gamban account with your new email.<h3>Self-compassion</h3>Learning to understand, tolerate, like and love yourself is a crucially important aspect to recovery. It’s important to understand that self-compassion does not mean self-indulgence. The objective is not to give yourself permission to gamble but to forgive yourself if you fall. Setting unreachable standards can be less than useful in recovery from gambling addiction. For more information on self-compassion and for some useful exercises visit http://self-compassion.org/ (one useful, if a little strange, exercise involves sending a letter to yourself from the perspective of a close and empathetic friend).<h3>Draw a line</h3>It’s OK; you’re never going to get that money back. It’s gone. The worst thing is to continue chasing. Learn and move on. You may be searching for someone to give you that reassurance that everything will be OK. If you are reading this with that mindset, then take this onboard: it’s what you do now that matters.<h3>Know you will never win</h3>You might win occasionally but what you win is almost certainly going back… and then some. One of the worst things that can happen to a gambler is a big win. You’re either chasing losses or worse, chasing wins. The best advice is to stay away completely. The cost of advertising, licensing, buildings, salaries – you gamble long enough, you lose – it’s that simple. This alone probably isn’t enough to make you stop – and we understand that.<h3>Give control away</h3>You may need someone to handle access to money in your state of vulnerability. Discuss this with parents, friends, family, partners – anyone you completely trust. Failing this, being accountable to someone else by showing them your bank statements means there is someone else included in your path to recovery.<h3>Distraction</h3>It may be too hard to stop ‘cold turkey’ with no other distractions or alternatives to gambling. Quite simply, you aren’t going to find anything to rival gambling in terms of excitement. It’s designed to transition you from a high to a low and back again. Try to reduce the requirement for stimulation from an activity by engaging in more activities that involve ‘flow state’. Get ‘absorbed’ in video games, play cognitive strategy games or engage in something more meditative like puzzle games. The jury’s out on free-to-play gambling games and whether they act as a relapse risk or as ‘methadone-to-heroin’.<h3>Mindfulness</h3>Using an application like Headspace can be extremely helpful in understanding your mind and slowing the response between thought, feeling and behaviour. Countless medical professionals suggest mindfulness as an effective option for problem gamblers. For more general information on Mindfulness (and getting better sleep!), visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nestmaven.com/sleep/aids/mindfulness/">https://www.nestmaven.com/sleep/aids/mindfulness/</a><h3>Create digital barriers</h3>By signing up to GAMSTOP (Spring 2018), you reduce the options for gambling with UK based gambling sites and with Gamban installed you reduce access to all gambling sites and applications. Download Gamban at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamban.com/register">https://www.gamban.com/register</a><h3>Create physical barriers</h3>Where do you gamble? In the bedroom? In the lounge? Then ban your computer from the bedroom and lounge. It may be easier for you to set rules on where you use your computer than how you use your computer, to help combat the urge to gamble.<h3>Shaving is saving</h3>By ‘shaving’ off the middle 8 digits and security code of your credit or debit card, you remove the ability to make online payments. This may not be possible if you do the majority of your shopping online but if you can remove the ability to spend online then this might help. You may also need to close PayPal and other payment methods to enforce this barrier.<h3>Talk</h3>Whether you want to talk on the phone, message via live chat, email or talk face-to-face, there are plenty of options available. It is entirely likely that your gambling activity is symptomatic of another [deeper] problem and for this, we highly recommend therapy. Some helpful resources include; <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/?cn-reloaded=1">The National Gambling helpline</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Gamblers Anonymous</a> and GamAnon. Ultimately, we believe there is a place for will-power – or more accurately, ‘won’t-power’ – but effective barriers can be helpful on the path to recovery from gambling addiction. Download Gamban at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamban.com/register">https://www.gamban.com/register</a>

12 Practical Tips For Problem Gamblers

We believe there is a place for will-power – or more accurately, ‘won’t-power’. Learning to understand, tolerate, like and love yourself is a crucially important aspect to recovery.

Guest blog by Alyx Effron - Collectors MD

For most people, collecting starts as a passion - whether it’s sports cards, comics, sneakers, or memorabilia. There’s joy in the hunt, satisfaction in the display, and meaning in the memories these objects hold.But for some collectors, especially in today’s hyper-digital, high-frequency landscape, that passion can quietly morph into something else: compulsion.The rise of online marketplaces, live breaking platforms, mystery packs, and “chase” products has fundamentally changed the nature of the hobby. It’s no longer just about what you collect - it's how you acquire it. And increasingly, that how mirrors the behavior and psychology of gambling.Breaking, Chasing, &amp; The Slot Machine EffectLive stream card breaking has exploded in popularity, offering users the chance to pay into randomized openings of sealed product. On the surface, it looks like entertainment. But beneath that, the mechanics are eerily familiar: real money is exchanged for randomized outcomes, with intermittent rewards, a strong fear of missing out (FOMO), and a rapid cycle of stimulus and response.For many, it's fun. For others, it's a dangerous loop.Much like a slot machine, each break or rip offers the chance to win big - or walk away with nothing. And like gambling, the occasional “win” reinforces the behavior, even when the losses far outweigh the gains.The Mental Toll Behind The Mask Of The HobbyWhat makes this cycle so insidious is that it’s often hidden behind the mask of a socially accepted (even celebrated) hobby. Friends and family may not recognize the behavior as problematic. After all, it’s just collecting cards - right?But if you’re:<ul><li>Spending more than you can afford</li><li>Hiding purchases or downplaying their frequency</li><li>Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when you’re not engaging</li><li>Trying to stop and finding you can’t</li></ul>…then it may be time to reevaluate the role collecting is playing in your life.Building Guardrails In A Guardrail-Free SpaceUnlike traditional gambling environments, the hobby space has no regulatory framework. No required disclaimers. No age limits. No mandated protections. Collectors, especially young or vulnerable ones, are often left to navigate this complex terrain alone.That’s why Collectors MD partnered with Gamban.Together, we’re providing collectors with the tools to recognize harmful behavior and take proactive steps toward regaining control. Gamban’s software blocks access to high-risk platforms like Whatnot, Fanatics Live, and other gambling-adjacent apps—offering a much-needed line of defense for those who are struggling.This partnership isn’t about canceling the hobby. It’s about protecting the people in it.Moving Forward With Awareness &amp; SupportAt Collectors MD, we believe collecting can still be joyful, intentional, and meaningful. But only when it’s done with self-awareness - and the right support structures in place.Whether you're a parent worried about your child’s spending, a collector caught in the cycle, or simply someone trying to understand the changing landscape of the hobby, we’re here to help.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://collectorsmd.com/">https://collectorsmd.com/</a>Let’s rewrite what it means to be a collector in today’s world - not driven by addiction or algorithms, but by connection, purpose, and clarity.

When Collecting Feels Like Gambling

When collecting becomes compulsive, it can mirror gambling. Learn how platforms like Gamban and Collectors MD help protect hobbyists from harm.

Removing Just One Element – Time, Money or Access – Can Help

In fire safety, there's a simple concept called the fire triangle: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Take away just one of these, and the fire dies. We believe the same model applies to gambling recovery. Remove time, money or access, and you reduce the risk of further harm.<h4>Time</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gamban-new-features-track-your-time-and-money-saved">Time</a> is easy to overlook, but it's often the first thing gambling consumes.Not just the time spent betting — it's time spent thinking about gambling, chasing losses, worrying about money. Time is finite; every moment given to gambling is time taken from something else. By replacing gambling with something that occupies your time, you reduce the risk of further gambling harm by limiting the availability of gambling.<h4>Money</h4>The danger with gambling isn't just losing money — it's believing you can win it back. Many <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-transactions">banks</a> offer gambling spend blocks so this can help protect you from spending money on gambling. Unfortunately, many of us lose everything to gambling but find ourselves spending everything we get on gambling, or worse, finding other means to access money.<h4>Access</h4>Gambling is only a few taps away, and your phone is, among other things, an online casino. Gamban exists to remove that access — to take one side of the triangle away and give people space to breathe, think, and recover. Self-exclusion schemes like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">GAMSTOP</a> are very effective at restricting access to online gambling. Having both in place is the best strategy. <h3>Putting the Fire Out</h3>The fire triangle teaches us a simple but powerful lesson: when you remove just one element, the fire dies. We can apply the same thinking to gambling harm: reducing time spent on gambling, removing access to gambling or restricting our ability to spend money on gambling.You don't have to do everything at once. Start with what's most achievable. Each element you remove reduces harm and creates space for recovery.<h4>Remove Time</h4><ul><li>Track when you feel most tempted to gamble and create alternative routines in those time slots</li><li>Replace unstructured time with planned activities, even small changes help: walks, calls, hobbies, volunteering</li></ul><h4>Restrict Money</h4><ul><li>Enable gambling blocks through your bank or financial apps (check if your bank offers this)</li><li>Delay access to money, move savings to an account you can't instantly access or use a pre-paid card for daily spending</li><li>Ask someone you trust to help manage your finances, if you're in a crisis phase</li></ul><h4>Block Access</h4><ul><li>Use software like Gamban to block gambling sites and apps across your devices</li><li>Register with a self-exclusion scheme – find localised options and support <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/help">here</a></li><li>Contact your mobile network or ISP to request gambling restrictions at the network level</li></ul>No one approach works for everyone, but even one of these changes can interrupt harmful patterns and help you move forward.

What Fire Teaches Us About Gambling

Fire needs fuel. So does gambling. Take away time, money or access - and reduce the help reduce harm

What Are My Odds?

Winning the Lottery May Sound Appealing, but How Likely Is It Actually?

Most people have played the lottery at least once, and the thought of instantly becoming a millionaire by spending just £2 appeals to a lot of people. It may seem worth it, but we suspect you won't feel the same way after reading this list of things that are more likely than winning the lotto.<h3> The Lottery</h3>The Euromillions is one of the most played lotteries in the world. With between 80 to 100 million people purchasing a ticket for a EuroMillions draw each week, the life-changing jackpot seems near impossible to obtain.In order to win, players need to match all five main numbers and both lucky star numbers. So with each play, you only have a 1 in 139,838,160 chance of getting the top prize. Do you regularly play the lottery? How much have you won? How much have you spent? If you ask someone who regularly buys lottery tickets if they have ever won a lottery, they are likely to say yes, they will remember the amount, how amazing it was, and they will be able to tell you everything about that day. But it's also extremely possible that if you ask them how much money they've spent on the lottery in their lives and compare it to what they've won, they'll be stumped. Not to add that what they have received is merely a fraction of what is being promoted as "the grand prize".Lotteries know how our selective memory works, which is one of many things we should keep in mind before playing, as is the following list of ludicrous things that are more likely than winning the lottery. <h3>Living to 100 </h3>Probability: 1 in 4It's shocking to learn that the chance of living to 100 or even longer is higher than winning the lottery. One in four babies born nowadays will live to be 100 years old. Some studies indicate that the probability of living more than 110 years is one in 50,000, especially for women who typically outlive men. So, instead of striving to win the lottery, it would be preferable to begin looking for hobbies to take up your time!<h3> Finding a four-leaf clover</h3>Probability: 1 in 10,000It's well known that you will be blessed with good fortune if you find a four-leaf clover. What are the chances of you finding one? The chances are pretty slim, 1 in 10,000. Nonetheless, you are nearly 14,000 times more likely to come across a 4-leaf clover than winning the lottery.  <h3>Become an Olympic athlete</h3>Probability 1 in 500,000We all know that being born with sporting ability is one of many requirements that can bring you closer to winning an Olympic medal. Becoming a great athlete involves discipline, training, hard work, conviction and effort. Yet, the chances of becoming an Olympic athlete are 1 in 500,000.But, when you think about it, training for the Olympics is still more likely than winning the lottery - in fact, it's 90 times more likely. It might be wiser to take up sport than try your luck at guessing a few numbers. <h3>Being hit by a meteorite</h3>Probability: 1 in 700,000 According to researchers, on average, one meteorite falls to earth each year. Normally this incredible "fireball" disintegrates before it hits the surface, or it's burnt down and reduced to a size that cannot cause harm.However, as rare as it may be, sometimes they get through our atmosphere, and the chance of being hit by one of these rocks is one in 700,000.<h3> Become a Movie Star</h3>Probability: 1 in 1,505,000Have you ever dreamed of being a movie star?The bad news is that the odds of making it to stardom are 1 in 1,505,000. The good news is that it's almost 100 times more likely than winning the lottery; a flight to Hollywood could be a better investment.<h3> Become a Billionaire</h3>Probability 1 in 2,800,000 While bumping into a billionaire isn't exactly commonplace. Out of a total population of nearly 8 billion, there are 2,775 billionaires. What are your chances of becoming a billionaire and being part of this very exclusive group of people? 1 in 2,867,513. Still far more likely than only winning a fraction of a billion on the lottery.<h3> Being struck by lightning</h3>Probability:1 in 10,000,000Being struck by lightning is, as we all know, unlikely. Experts have concluded that the chances of being struck by lightning are 1 in 10,000,000. And yet you are much more likely to be struck by lightning than to win the lottery.<h3> Getting attacked by a shark</h3>Probability: 1 in 11,500,000 Even if you regularly swim in the sea, the chance of being attacked by a shark is still very low. Sharks tend to be placid creatures who keep to themselves, unlike what many movies have led us to believe. The chance of being attacked by one of them is 1 in 11.5 million.<h3> Having identical quadruplets. </h3>Probability 1 in 15,000,000While the chances of twins are low, the chances of identical quadruplets are even lower: 1 in 15 million. And wouldn't you know it, you're still more likely to have quadruplets than win the lottery!<h3> Becoming a saint. </h3>Probability 1 in 22,000,000The average person has a one in 22 million chance of being made a saint or canonised by the Pope as it’s known. <h3>The House Always Wins</h3>Ever wonder how there are so many casinos? Because the odds are stacked against the player, the house ALWAYS wins. It's not just the lottery that has some awful chances of winning. Slot machine odds are some of the worst, with odds as low as one in about 34 million chance of winning the top prize when using the maximum coin play. With so many "opportunities" to become a millionaire, it can be challenging to resist the urge for one more ticket or one more spin. Gamban can help remove that temptation and block you from all online gambling. You can try Gamban for free today.<a href="https://gamban.com/">Try Gamban</a>

10 Things More Likely than Winning the Lottery

Guest blog by Desislava Bezinska-Sheinkova - Licensed Psychologist, PhD

Let me tell you the story of a man who came to me, drowning in the depths of a severe gambling addiction. For the sake of this story, I will call him Andrew.Andrew was 35 years old, working in the IT field, and carrying a crushing debt of tens of thousands. It was nearly a year ago when he first walked into my office. I remember the look in his eyes—hopelessness, shame, and exhaustion. His life was unraveling, and he could feel it slipping through his fingers. He had a girlfriend, but he was avoiding her, desperate to keep his secret hidden, terrified of her discovering the truth about how deep he had sunk.We began the recovery process, and after our third session, I gave him an unusual piece of advice: get a dog. It might have seemed unrelated to his gambling problem, but he listened. He got a dog and named him Prize.<figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/79c9020d-1be3-40da-9886-a67ff980d9a5.jpg" /></figure>Something remarkable happened. In just two months, while caring for Prize, Andrew managed to stay away from gambling completely. He poured his attention into his new companion, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of responsibility for something beyond himself. But life has a way of testing our resolve.Andrew’s relationship fell apart, and with that heartbreak, he relapsed. He returned to gambling, spiraling deeper into debt, and eventually, he cut off contact with me. The process we had started came to an abrupt halt.Four months passed before I heard from him again. This time, the situation was even worse—his debt had doubled, and he had lost his girlfriend. He was utterly broken. When he reached out, he wasn’t just asking for help; he was begging.We restarted the process from square one. During our first session back, I asked about Prize. That’s when Andrew told me something that stopped me in my tracks.He had started noticing that his dog reacted to his gambling.I asked him what he meant, and he described a series of strange occurrences. Whenever he played casino games on his phone, the moment the game sounds started, Prize would leave the room and refuse to return until Andrew turned the game off. But that wasn’t all. After every big loss, when Andrew felt utterly devastated, Prize would get sick. Every single time—no exceptions.I asked him what made him decide to seek help again. His answer was simple, yet profound:“Prize is like my son. I don’t have kids, and he’s the only one who stayed when everyone else left. I don’t want him to suffer because of me. I don’t want to see my dog sick. I owe him to stop.”And so, we began the fight again. But this time, the motivation was different. This time, we weren’t just fighting to save one life.We were fighting to save two.My name is Desislava Bezinska-Sheinkova, and I hold a doctoral degree in psychology. Over the past ten years, I have dedicated my work exclusively to gambling addiction recovery, helping individuals regain control of their lives. Three years ago, I founded <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://hazartna-zavisimost.com/">PSIHONIKA</a>, the first center in Bulgaria specializing in gambling addiction treatment. Today, our center continues to support many people on their path to recovery.In addition to my clinical practice, I authored the book "GAMBLEX: LIFE ON THE LINE," available on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/GamblEX-Life-Dr-Desislava-Bezinska-Sheinkova/dp/B0DCZCMGKQ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8Hk0oVzXgT2mzh2qRP1ObA.hm_tfjGvt2o9eGfaBGv7oKhzMsZLClpj1Wxoe2sAcOo&amp;amp;dib_tag=se&amp;amp;keywords=gamblex&amp;amp;qid=1741267014&amp;amp;sr=8-1">Amazon</a>. The book serves as a resource for compulsive gamblers and their loved ones, offering insights into addiction and providing a guide for starting the journey toward recovery. While I cannot personally reach everyone in need, this book allows me to extend my knowledge and support to a broader audience.Throughout my practice, I have observed an intriguing and unexpected pattern—dogs play a significant role in helping compulsive gamblers quit gambling.Andrew's story is not unique. Over the years, I have encountered many similar cases, where dogs played a crucial role in compulsive gamblers' recovery. This phenomenon is deeply rooted in psychological and emotional mechanisms, which we will explore further.The Psychological Impact of Dogs on Gambling Addiction RecoveryGambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, is a behavioral disorder characterized by an inability to control gambling activities, despite the negative consequences. It impacts financial stability, emotional well-being, and social relationships, often leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. While traditional treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, and medication remain crucial in recovery, emerging research highlights the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions, particularly the role of dogs in supporting emotional and psychological healing.This article explores how dogs contribute to gambling addiction recovery, focusing on their impact on emotional regulation, behavioral stability, and mental health —all essential aspects of overcoming addiction.1. Emotional Regulation &amp; Stress ReductionOne of the defining characteristics of gambling addiction is the emotional rollercoaster associated with wins, losses, and cravings. Many individuals struggle with anxiety, guilt, depression, and stress, which often act as triggers for relapse.Dogs help regulate emotions by:<ul><li>Reducing stress and anxiety – Interacting with dogs has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the "bonding hormone"), promoting relaxation and emotional stability.</li><li>Providing unconditional support – Unlike human relationships, which may be strained due to gambling-related behaviors, a dog’s presence is consistent, nonjudgmental, and comforting.</li><li>Alleviating loneliness – Gambling addiction often leads to social withdrawal, causing individuals to feel isolated and disconnected. A dog provides companionship, reducing emotional distress and preventing relapse.</li></ul>In Andrew’s case, Prize became his emotional anchor. After his gambling relapses, he began to recognize how his dog mirrored his distress. Prize’s reactions—leaving the room when Andrew gambled, becoming sick after a loss—acted as a wake-up call, helping Andrew gain emotional awareness of his behavior’s impact. This realization strengthened his commitment to recovery.Research in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has found that pet ownership is linked to lower symptoms of depression and anxiety. For individuals in gambling recovery, the emotional presence of a dog provides a healthy coping mechanism, reducing the urge to gamble as a form of stress relief.2. Routine &amp; Responsibility: A Shift Away from Gambling HabitsGambling addiction often disrupts daily life, creating irregular schedules, financial instability, and impulsive decision-making. One of the most significant challenges in recovery is replacing destructive habits with positive, structured routines.Owning a dog naturally introduces:<ul><li>A consistent daily routine – Walking, feeding, and caring for a dog requires structure and commitment, reducing impulsive behaviors.</li><li>A sense of responsibility – Instead of focusing on gambling urges, individuals redirect their attention to caring for their pet, creating a healthier mindset.</li><li>Accountability – A dog’s well-being depends entirely on its owner, reinforcing long-term thinking and self-discipline.</li></ul>For Andrew, caring for Prize established a sense of purpose outside of gambling. In the months when he was gambling-free, his focus shifted from casino apps to ensuring Prize was well-fed, exercised, and happy. This newfound responsibility helped weaken his impulsive behaviors, showing how routine and stability contribute to breaking the gambling cycle.3. A New Source of Dopamine: Replacing Gambling with Positive RewardsGambling addiction is heavily linked to dopamine-driven compulsions. Winning bets trigger dopamine surges, reinforcing the desire to gamble, even when it results in financial loss.Dogs help address this by:<ul><li>Providing natural dopamine boosts – Activities like playing, petting, and training a dog stimulate dopamine and serotonin, creating a sense of joy and fulfillment.</li><li>Encouraging alternative engagement – Many gamblers relapse due to boredom or restlessness. Interacting with a dog fills this void with rewarding, non-destructive activities.</li><li>Promoting mindfulness and emotional connection – Unlike gambling, which encourages escapism, spending time with a dog grounds individuals in the present moment, a core principle in mindfulness-based therapy for addiction.</li></ul>Andrew realized that the same rush of excitement he once sought in gambling could be found in simpler, healthier moments with Prize—whether through playing fetch or going for walks. His dopamine-seeking behavior gradually shifted toward positive interactions, reinforcing his commitment to stay away from gambling triggers.ConclusionThe therapeutic role of dogs in gambling addiction recovery is profound. As seen in Andrew’s story, they provide emotional stability, structure, behavioral awareness, and motivation—all essential components of a successful recovery.For many struggling with gambling addiction, the journey is no longer just about saving themselves.It’s about saving two lives—human and canine—together.

How Dogs Can Help Overcome Gambling Addiction

Track Your Progress, Earn Badges, and Stay Motivated

At Gamban, we understand that every step you take toward a gambling-free life is an important one. Whether it’s your first day without gambling or you’ve been free for years, each milestone deserves recognition. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new badges!<h3 class="thin">What Are Gamban Badges?</h3>Badges are earned as you use Gamban and progress on your journey. These badges are designed to celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small. Whether you’ve reached a milestone in the number of days you’ve stayed gambling-free, saved money by not gambling, or taken important steps to protect yourself, there’s a badge for you.<h3 class="thin">How Do You Earn Badges?</h3>Earning badges with Gamban is simple and rewarding. Here are just a few examples of how you can unlock badges:<ul><li>Time Milestones: Earn badges for every day, week, and month that you stay free from gambling. Each milestone is a testament to your strength and commitment.</li><li>Money Saved: As you continue to stay gambling-free, you’ll also save money. Achieve badges as your savings grow, reminding you of the financial benefits of your hard work.</li><li>Taking Protective Steps: We’ll also recognise when you take steps to protect yourself from gambling, such as installing Gamban on all your devices, signing up for a self-exclusion scheme, or contacting a gambling helpline. These actions are vital in your journey, and they deserve to be celebrated.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">How Can Badges Help You?</h3>Badges aren’t just about collecting virtual rewards, they’re about recognising and celebrating your progress. When you see your badges, you’ll be reminded of the positive choices you’ve made. They can help motivate you to keep going, especially on tough days when the journey feels harder. Each badge is a symbol of your strength, determination, and the positive changes you’re making in your life.<h3 class="thin">Share Your Success and Inspire Others</h3>We know that sharing your achievements can be an important part of recovery. With Gamban Badges, you can choose to share your progress with friends, family, or your support group. Of course, if you prefer to keep your achievements private, that’s okay too.<h3 class="thin">What if I relapse? Do I lose badges?</h3><ul><li>If you relapse and reset your Gambling-Free Counter, your Time and Money Saved Badges will reset automatically. It’s a fresh start, and each new step forward is still progress on your journey.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">How can I view all my earned badges?</h3><ul><li>You can easily view all your earned badges in the "Badges" tab within the Gamban app or by logging in to your account on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_medium=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_id=Badge+Blog"> gamban.com</a>.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Do the badges sync across devices?</h3><ul><li>Yes, your badges will sync across all devices where Gamban is installed, so you can track your progress seamlessly no matter where you are.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Will there be new badges introduced over time?</h3><ul><li>Yes, we plan to introduce new badges over time to celebrate even more milestones and achievements on your journey to recovery. Keep an eye out for updates!</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Will I be notified when I earn a badge?</h3><ul><li>Yes, you’ll receive a notification when you earn a new badge, so if you prefer not to be notified then you should turn off notifications in your settings.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">What happens to my badges if I cancel my Gamban subscription?</h3><ul><li>Your badges won’t go away if you cancel your subscription, but you’ll only be able to view and earn new badges with an active subscription.</li></ul>Download the latest update to start tracking your progress and earning badges today. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_medium=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_id=Badge+Blog" role="button">Start Your Journey</a>

Celebrate your Recovery Milestones with Gamban Badges!

Discover how Gamban's new Badges feature celebrates your milestones on the journey.

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10 Things More Likely than Winning the Lottery

How Dogs Can Help Overcome Gambling Addiction

Celebrate your Recovery Milestones with Gamban Badges!

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News & Articles

List of Articles

Flaws Uncovered in Online Self-exclusion Scheme

Are You At Risk From Online Gambling?

Is Self-Excluding from online Gambling the right choice for me?

12 Practical Tips For Problem Gamblers

When Collecting Feels Like Gambling

What Fire Teaches Us About Gambling

10 Things More Likely than Winning the Lottery

How Dogs Can Help Overcome Gambling Addiction

Celebrate your Recovery Milestones with Gamban Badges!

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

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