CEJ Analytics & Consulting is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting those affected by problem gambling.
Our Commitment
At CEJ Analytics & Consulting, we believe that gambling should remain an entertaining activity that doesn’t negatively impact your personal life, relationships, or financial well-being. We are dedicated to providing resources, information, and support to help individuals make informed decisions about their gambling activities.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: CEJ Analytics & Consulting provides analytical services and consulting related to the gaming industry. We do not operate gambling platforms, accept wagers, or facilitate gambling activities. All content on our website is for informational and educational purposes only.
Understanding Responsible Gambling
Responsible gambling means maintaining control over your gambling activities. It involves setting limits on both time and money spent gambling, understanding the risks involved, and ensuring that gambling remains a form of entertainment rather than a way to solve financial problems.
Key Principles of Responsible Gambling:
Set Limits and Stick to Them
- Establish a budget for gambling activities that you can afford to lose
- Set time limits for gambling sessions
- Never gamble with money intended for essential expenses
Understand the Odds
- Remember that gambling is designed to favor the house
- View any money spent gambling as the cost of entertainment, not as an investment
- Accept that losses are part of the gambling experience
Maintain Balance
- Keep gambling as one of many recreational activities
- Don’t let gambling interfere with work, family, or other responsibilities
- Take regular breaks from gambling activities
Recognizing Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of background or experience level. It’s important to recognize the warning signs early and seek help when needed.
Warning Signs Include:
- Financial Indicators:
- Spending more money on gambling than originally intended
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Lying about gambling losses or activities
- Neglecting bills or other financial obligations
- Behavioral Changes:
- Inability to reduce or stop gambling despite repeated attempts
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back on gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
- Relationship and Social Impact:
- Neglecting family, friends, or work responsibilities
- Lying to loved ones about gambling activities
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to gambling
- Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Emotional Symptoms:
- Feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed about gambling
- Experiencing mood swings related to gambling wins and losses
- Thinking constantly about gambling or planning the next gambling session
Getting Help and Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and professional resources can provide the guidance needed to regain control.
United States Resources
National Problem Gambling Helpline
- Phone: 1-800-522-4700
- Website: ncpgambling.org
- Available 24/7 for confidential support
Gamblers Anonymous
- Website: gamblersanonymous.org
- Free support groups nationwide
- Peer-to-peer support from people with shared experiences
National Center for Responsible Gaming
- Website: icrg.org
- Research and educational resources on gambling disorders
Gambling Therapy
- Website: gamblingtherapy.org
- Free online support and counseling services
State-Specific Resources
Illinois
- Crisis counseling: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
- Illinois Self-Exclusion Program
Colorado
- Problem gambling help: 1-800-522-4700
- Colorado Self-Exclusion Program
New Jersey
- Support line: 1-800-GAMBLER
- New Jersey Self-Exclusion Program
Pennsylvania
- Help available: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Pennsylvania Self-Exclusion Program
Michigan
- Gambling Disorder Helpline: 1-800-270-7117
- Michigan Self-Exclusion Program
International Resources
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: responsiblegambling.org
- Canadian Partnership for Responsible Gaming: cprg.ca
United Kingdom
- BeGambleAware: begambleaware.org
- GamCare: gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (Self-Exclusion): gamstop.co.uk
Self-Exclusion Programs
Self-exclusion is a valuable tool that allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling venues and online platforms. These programs provide a cooling-off period that can help break the cycle of problem gambling.
How Self-Exclusion Works:
- Voluntary enrollment in state or provincial programs
- Bans access to casinos, gaming facilities, and online platforms
- Available for various time periods (months to years)
- Some programs are permanent
To Find Your Local Program:
- Check your state or provincial government website
- Contact your local gaming commission
- Call the national problem gambling helpline for guidance
Age Verification and Legal Requirements
Gambling laws vary by jurisdiction, but protecting minors is universal:
- United States: Legal gambling age is typically 21 (18 in some states)
- Canada: Legal gambling age is 18 or 19 depending on the province
- United Kingdom: Legal gambling age is 18
CEJ Analytics & Consulting supports strict age verification measures and opposes underage gambling in all forms.
Treatment and Recovery
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. Various evidence-based treatment options are available:
Professional Treatment Options:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change problematic thought patterns
- Individual Counseling: One-on-one sessions with trained therapists
- Group Therapy: Support from others facing similar challenges
- Family Therapy: Addresses the impact on relationships and family dynamics
Support Groups:
- Gamblers Anonymous: 12-step program with meetings nationwide
- Online Support Communities: Virtual meetings and forums
- Family Support Groups: Resources for affected family members
Moving Forward
Recovery from problem gambling is possible with the right support and resources. Remember:
- You are not alone – millions of people have successfully overcome gambling problems
- Help is available – professional support and treatment options exist
- Recovery takes time – be patient with yourself throughout the process
- Prevention is key – maintaining healthy gambling habits protects long-term well-being
Contact Information
If you need immediate help or have questions about problem gambling resources:
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 Crisis Text Line: Text “HELP” to 233-733
For more information about CEJ Analytics & Consulting’s commitment to responsible gambling practices, please contact our team.
Remember: The most important step in addressing a gambling problem is recognizing that help is needed and reaching out for support. Recovery is possible, and resources are available to help you or your loved ones regain control.