Set a strict budget before you start and never use money needed for rent, bills, food, or savings
Decide in advance how much time you will spend gambling and stop when that limit is reached
Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money
Accept losses as part of gambling and do not chase them
Never borrow money to gamble
Avoid gambling when stressed, upset, angry, tired, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Take regular breaks and step away if you feel frustrated or impulsive
Keep track of your spending, wins, and losses
Use deposit limits, loss limits, and time limits if available
Do not gamble to cope with problems or emotions
Balance gambling with other activities and hobbies
Do not let gambling interfere with work, school, relationships, or responsibilities
Be honest with yourself and others about your gambling habits
Avoid gambling alone if it makes it harder to control your behavior
Seek help early if gambling starts to feel difficult to control
Use self-exclusion tools if needed
Contact a trusted person or support service if gambling becomes a problem