February 17: International Responsible Gambling Day – Raising Awareness About Gambling Addiction

Every February 17, the International Responsible Gambling Day is commemorated, a date established in 2008 by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) with the support of UNESCO. The primary goal of this initiative is to raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling addiction, also known as ludopathy, and to promote responsible and ethical gambling practices.

What is Ludopathy?

Ludopathy, or gambling addiction, is a behavioral disorder classified as an impulse control disorder. It is characterized by an uncontrollable need to engage in gambling activities, despite negative consequences in a person's personal, family, work, and financial life.

The disorder is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a condition that requires intervention and treatment.

Warning Signs of Gambling Addiction

Identifying the symptoms of gambling addiction is crucial to seeking help in time. Some of the most common warning signs include:

• Constant preoccupation with gambling – Frequently thinking about gambling activities, planning future bets, or reminiscing about past gambling experiences.
• Increased betting amounts – A need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired level of excitement.
• Failed attempts to stop gambling – Inability to reduce or quit gambling despite repeated efforts.
• Irritability and restlessness – Feeling anxious or agitated when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
• Using gambling as an escape – Betting to avoid personal problems or to relieve emotions such as anxiety or depression.
• Deception – Lying to family, friends, or therapists to hide the extent of gambling involvement.
• Loss of relationships and opportunities – Gambling causes deterioration in relationships, job performance, and educational achievements.
• Financial dependency – Relying on others for money to cover debts or continue gambling.

Impact on Society

Gambling addiction not only affects the individual but also has wider consequences on their social environment and society. Families suffer economic hardship, emotional distress, and conflicts due to accumulated debts and the compulsive behavior of the gambler.

In the workplace, gambling addiction can lead to reduced productivity, absenteeism, and job loss. On a broader level, society bears the financial burden of medical care, rehabilitation programs, and, in some cases, criminal activities linked to gambling debts.

Preventing Gambling Addiction and Promoting Responsible Gambling

Encouraging responsible gambling practices is crucial to preventing addictive behaviors. Here are some key recommendations:

✔ Set limits – Establish a fixed budget and time for gambling and strictly adhere to them.
✔ Avoid gambling as an emotional escape – Do not use gambling to cope with personal problems or emotional distress.
✔ Understand the odds – Acknowledge that gambling activities are designed to favor the house and that winning is mostly based on luck.
✔ Seek help when needed – If any signs of gambling addiction appear, consult a professional or join a support group.

Global Efforts and Resources

Different countries have developed programs and initiatives to address gambling addiction and promote responsible gambling.

For example, in Argentina, National Law 26.305, enacted in 2007, supports the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. This law, among other objectives, seeks to promote responsible gambling practices and protect individuals from the potential negative effects of gambling. 

Additionally, organizations such as the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) actively promote responsible gambling standards, offering guidelines and resources for both gambling operators and players to minimize gambling-related risks.