Have you ever thought about how online and offline casinos can harm people’s lives? It’s not a secret gambling can be addictive, but many still consider it a far-fetched problem easy to deal with. Unfortunately, it’s a misconception. Compulsive gambling is a serious mental illness that requires long-lasting and exhausting treatment. Therefore, preventing the disease using all the available tools is on the agenda for players and operators.
GamStop is one of the popular options aiming to cope with problem gambling. The software is developed and operated under the control of UKGC. This self-exclusion tool is widely used by gamblers in the UK and beyond and has already shown positive results.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
As already said, gambling addiction is a severe disease, and instant treatment is exactly what problem players require. However, preventing the condition is better than starting medication. Therefore, recognising the first signs of addiction is critical. They include the following:
- Lack of self-control in casinos and sportsbooks.
- Constant thoughts about games and slots.
- Confidence that the win is about to come.
- The inability to control expenses.
- Anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
- Decreased sleep and appetite.
In general, the initial stages of gambling addiction are characterised by decreased quality of life. Worsening of the problem can lead to a loss of interest in life and long-term treatment. Therefore, preventing the disease and starting treatment as soon as possible is critical. Self-exclusion programs are the best tool in this case, so let’s have a look at how it works.
An Overview of GamStop
GamStop is the prevalent self-exclusion software operating under the control of the UK Gambling Commission. This software blocks access to all gambling and betting websites in this jurisdiction. Once a user has registered on the platform, they won’t be able to enter any online casino or sportsbook. This method is considered effective, and over 80% of respondents confirmed the improvement in their condition. Look at the main principles of GamStop:
- A user can choose the restriction period from 6 months to 5 years.
- It’s impossible to suspend participation in the program or cancel it.
- It covers thousands of betting and casino platforms.
The tool isn’t perfect, and many players still avoid it. However, it has multiple benefits that positively affect the gambling industry, decreasing the percentage of the impacted population.
The Role of GamStop in Combating Gambling Addiction
GamStop is the first tool problem players should pay attention to when noticing the first signs of gambling addiction. The software provides detailed instructions on coping with the disease and steps to complete to start therapy as soon as possible. Registering in the program won’t take much time and effort:
- Learn the GamStop conditions.
- Enter the required personal data (but be aware of personal data protection).
- Choose the self-exclusion period.
- Verify your identity.
- Confirm participation in the program.
After that, a user won’t be able to access any gambling or betting platform under the UKGC regulation.
Efficiency of GamStop
Statistics show the younger generation is more prone to gambling addiction. However, older people also suffer from this disorder. So, GamStop covers users of different ages, genders, and income levels. Moreover, all gambling and betting types were considered. According to surveys, over 80% of all participants notice an improvement in their condition. Other 20% didn’t report their negative experience but rather give neutral feedback about the program.
The Future of GamStop and Similar Services
Even though GamStop software has proved its efficiency, it doesn’t cover a broad range of gambling websites and in this case GamStop can be avoided or any other self-exclusion tool as well. There is a need to develop more similar solutions that would operate in different jurisdictions. Every regulating body should take this responsibility and consider the obligatory implementation of self-exclusion tools. GamStop already has several alternatives, like Bet Blocker and Net Nanny, but they are still insufficient to cover such a vast market.
Moreover, players still find ways to get around the ban. For instance, the usage of cryptocurrencies is one of the possible solutions. So, developers, operators, and regulatory authorities have to consider these details when improving self-exclusion programs. Such a method is only effective when players have a total ban on gambling activities.
Importance of GamStop & Its Potential
In a nutshell, GamStop is the most effective tool to cope with the first signs of gambling addictions and prevent disease development. The tool blocks access to all risky platforms in the UK and completely restricts users to enter them. Moreover, the program provides problem players with all the necessary sources for appropriate therapy.
GamStop is not the only self-exclusion tool, but the coverage is still not enough. Considering the growing demand for online casinos and sportsbooks, the problem rates also increase. New programs and tools for preventing negative consequences must be developed. This is the latest challenge for gaming operators and governments, but we are confident this issue will be addressed in the near future.
