Responsible Gambling — Richmond Pal

Last reviewed: May 8, 2026

What Is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is when gambling begins to negatively impact your life — financially, emotionally, or in your relationships. It can affect anyone, regardless of how much money or how often they gamble.

Warning Signs

Consider seeking help if you notice any of the following:

• Gambling with more money than you planned or can afford to lose
• Thinking about gambling constantly or unable to stop thinking about past wins/losses
• Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've already lost
• Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions
• Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling

Tools to Stay in Control

Most reputable gambling sites offer built-in responsible gambling tools:

• Deposit limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit.
• Loss limits: Cap the total amount you can lose in a given period.
• Session time limits: Set reminders or automatic logouts after a set play time.
• Self-exclusion: Take a break (days, weeks, or permanently) from a specific site.
• Reality checks: Regular pop-ups reminding you how long you've been playing.
• Cool-off periods: Temporarily close your account for a few days.

For Friends and Family

Problem gambling affects everyone around the gambler. If you're concerned about a loved one:

• The NCPG helpline (1-800-522-4700) supports friends and family, not just gamblers.
• Gam-Anon — support groups for those affected by someone else's gambling.

Virginia-Specific Resources

If you live in Virginia and are looking for help that's local to you, the following organizations work directly with Virginia residents:

• Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG) — call 1-888-532-3500 or visit vacpg.org for confidential support, treatment referrals, and family resources for Virginia residents.
• Virginia Lottery Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program — Virginia operates a voluntary self-exclusion list for state-regulated sports betting. Once enrolled, all licensed Virginia sportsbooks are required to block your account for the duration you select.
• Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services — provides links to certified problem gambling counselors across the state.
• 211 Virginia — dial 211 for a free, confidential statewide referral service that includes problem gambling support along with broader behavioral health resources.

Bankroll Management Basics

The single most useful habit you can build is treating gambling as an entertainment expense — money you have already decided you can afford to lose. A few simple rules that work for most players:

• Set a session budget before you log in. Decide on a stop-loss number and a stop-win number, and walk away when you hit either one.
• Keep gambling money on a separate payment method from rent, utilities, and groceries. A dedicated debit card or crypto wallet creates friction that helps you stay disciplined.
• Never deposit "to chase" a loss. Chasing is the single most common path from casual play to problem gambling.
• Track wins and losses honestly. Most players overestimate their wins and underestimate their losses. A simple spreadsheet over 30 days will show you the truth.
• Take scheduled breaks. A full week off every month resets your relationship with the activity and makes problem patterns easier to spot.

Helping Someone Else

If you're worried about a friend or family member, conversations work better when they are calm, private, and free of judgment. Approach the topic with concern rather than accusation. Avoid threats and ultimatums in the first conversation — they tend to push the person away. Instead, share what you've observed, listen to their response, and offer to help them find resources. Gam-Anon and the NCPG helpline (1-800-522-4700) both provide guidance specifically for friends and family.

If a loved one is in immediate financial or emotional crisis, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Our Commitment

Richmond Pal only recommends gambling sites that offer responsible gambling tools. We include responsible gambling resources on every page of this site. We do not target advertising at anyone who appears to have a gambling problem. We support the right of every adult to make informed choices about gambling.

This page is reviewed at least every six months and updated whenever new resources, hotlines, or self-exclusion programs become available to Virginia residents. If you spot outdated information, please contact us and we'll correct it within 48 hours.

Remember: Gambling is entertainment, not a way to make money. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.