You might think because of Texas’ strict laws restricting betting activities that gambling addiction is not a serious problem, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. As the state weighs whether to expand gambling statewide, especially on the issue of sports betting, 600,000 Texans (or more) could be at risk of developing a gambling addiction according to estimates from the National Council on Problem Gambling.
In advance of any potential expansion, we’ve prepared this piece to inform you of ways to practice responsible gambling. This way, you can be ready to make any future wagers in a safe manner and help combat compulsive gambling.
Responsible gambling overview
Responsible gambling takes on many forms, and the practice thereof requires a commitment from bettors, gambling operators, and regulatory agencies to ensure betting can be conducted in a fair and safe manner. Gambling in Texas should be an enjoyable experience for all parties involved, but the competitive and at times high-stakes nature of betting can lead to a multitude of problems if players or operators are negligent.
At an individual level, responsible gambling entails setting limits on the money and time spent at betting facilities, whether online or brick-and-mortar in nature. Additionally, players should know themselves well enough to be able to walk away and take a break to keep their emotions in check while betting; it is always better to leave a betting environment than to continue playing at emotional extremes.
Gambling operators can practice responsible gambling by setting reasonable wagering requirements (including deposit limits and wager maximums), engaging in ethical marketing practices (such as not marketing to underage would-be users and vulnerable individuals), and training employees to abide by gaming regulations and keep betting environments safe.
Texas problem gambling resources
Texas’ problem gambling resources are rather sparse, though this is partially because of how limited gambling operations are in the state. There are three tribal casinos in operation as well as a state lottery, but no sports betting or Texas online casinos up and running (all are prohibited under TX law).
As such, the state has delegated many responsible gambling practices to gaming operators and national services. There is no centralized gambling self-exclusion list in the state; instead, individual casinos are tasked with creating and maintaining these lists and encouraging at-risk individuals to enroll in the program.
The most direct local option is UT's Counseling & Mental Health Center (CMHC), which can provide direct support and connect gambling addicts and at-risk individuals with mental health professionals. Call 512-471-3515 for information on setting up an appointment with a counselor, or in an emergency, contact the CMHC Crisis Line at 512-471-CALL for a telephone counselor.
Other problem gambling resources include the Houston-based Sterling Center for Problem Gambling (281-907-9551), the Texas Lottery Play Responsibly program, and Gamblers Anonymous (which holds meetings in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, along with other areas around the state).
Nationwide problem gambling resources
Because Texas’ resources are still somewhat limited, a nationwide problem gambling resource might be an easier and more convenient route. Here are some of the most utilized sources for help combatting a gambling addiction or problematic gambling behaviors.