Article | 7 minutes read
Why Take a Cooling-Off Break
A gambling cooling-off break can be a crucial step in maintaining control over your gambling habits, helping you make healthy decisions and stay within your limits. This temporary pause offers numerous benefits.
How to Activate a Gambling Cool-Off
The following step-by-step guide shows you how to activate a cool-off period on a gambling platform. Simply follow these instructions to take a temporary break for a few hours, days, or weeks:
#1. Access your account settings
Log into the gambling platform and navigate to the ‘My Account’ dashboard to access your account settings.
#2. Locate the safer gambling tools
Go to the ‘Safer Gambling’ or ‘Cool-Off’ section to access the platform’s responsible gambling tools.
#3. Select the Session Reminder option and confirm the duration
From the ‘Session Reminder’ or ‘Cool-Off’ section, select your desired cool-off period (e.g. 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week).
#4. Note the expiration date
Confirm your cool-off time frame. The confirmation screen shows the time and date when the cooling-off period ends.
Choosing the right gambling cool-off period is essential for managing your habits. For some, a brief pause might be enough, while others may need a longer break to reset and establish healthier practices. Being aware of warning signs, like overspending and chasing losses, can guide you in deciding when and for how long a break is necessary.
Types of Time Outs in Gambling
Session Cool-Offs
Session cool-offs are short, automatic breaks that are activated during extended gaming sessions. These breaks are usually triggered when players reach a set time or spending limit. Session cool-offs typically last between 15 and 30 minutes and will prevent you from gambling until the time-out comes to an end.
Daily Cool-Offs
Daily cool-offs offer a 24-hour break from all gambling activities, helping you reset and spend time doing something else. This pause can prevent excessive gambling by encouraging a healthier approach to play, especially if you are a regular player. You will not be able to access your gambling account during this cool-off period.
| Type of Cool-Off | Duration | Purpose | Benefits | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session Cool-Offs | 15-30 minutes | Automatic breaks during lengthy gameplay | Promotes awareness and self-regulation | Players who need regular reminders to take short breaks |
| Daily Cool-Offs | 24 hours | Breaks from all gambling activity | Resets mindset; prevents excessive play | Regular players who benefit from daily reset opportunities |
| Weekly Cool-Offs | 1-3 days per week | Substantial pause for balance | Supports work-life balance; aids recovery | Those needing scheduled breaks to maintain balance |
| Extended Cool-Offs | Multiple days or weeks | For serious gambling concerns | Allows time for self-reflection; can be combined with other tools | Individuals facing significant gambling issues |
Weekly Cool-Offs
Weekly cool-offs provide a more substantial break, with 1-3 days away from gambling games each week. This approach helps you cool down on gambling and prevents excessive play. For those in recovery from problem gambling, it’s a valuable tool to regain control and create healthier long-term habits.
Extended Cool-Offs
Extended cool-offs involve taking multi-day or week-long breaks from gambling and are ideal for players with serious gambling concerns. This extended period allows for meaningful self-reflection and taking account of how gambling affects your daily life. Often combined with other support tools, extended time-outs in gambling can be a vital step toward healthier behavior.
What Happens During a Cooling-Off Period
During gambling cooling-off periods, your account access will be temporarily restricted. This means that deposits and gameplay will be disabled to ensure that you cannot participate in any gambling activities. Throughout this time, the gambling platform will send periodic reminders about how much cooling-off time remains.
Additionally, support resources will be available to help you manage any gambling urges and provide guidance. This temporary break encourages responsible gambling and allows you to develop healthier habits before betting can resume.
Do Time Outs Affect my Account or Winnings
When you activate a cool-off period within a platform, your account will be suspended, which means you won’t be able to place bets or access certain features. However, any winnings you’ve accumulated will be securely held until the cool-off period is complete. Once the period ends, you’ll have full access to your account and can withdraw funds as normal, with no impact on your balance or winnings.
Best Practices for Setting Limits
The following suggestions can help players manage their gambling habits responsibly and avoid impulsive decisions during a cooling-off period.
Start with Short Durations: Begin with a short cooling-off period to test its effectiveness. You can gradually increase the length if you need more time to assess your gambling patterns.
Combine Cool-Offs with Other Responsible Gambling Tools: Use cooling-off alongside other tools like deposit limits and self-assessment checks. This combination will help strengthen your commitment to responsible gaming habits.
Engage in Alternative Activities During the Break: Find fulfilling activities to replace gambling, such as exercising, learning a new skill, or connecting with friends and family. Doing so supports healthier lifestyle choices.
Avoid Trying to “Beat” the Cool-Off by Using Other Accounts: Respect your cooling-off period by not switching accounts. This helps you build self-discipline and create responsible gambling habits.
Seek Professional Help if You’re Unable to Take a Break: If a cool-off feels challenging, consider seeking professional help, such as consulting a counselor or joining a support group. This will help you manage your gambling urges.
Additional Support Resources
In addition to gambling cooling-off periods, players can reach out to various independent groups for guidance and support. Problem gambling organizations provide invaluable resources to empower those affected by addiction and help them develop healthier habits, regain control over their lives, and find motivation for lasting recovery.
- National Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Gambling Support Websites: www.ncpgambling.org, www.gambleaware.org
- Counseling Services: Gamblers Anonymous Locations
- Self-Assessment Tools: Ten Question Quiz
Conclusion
Cool-off periods are a valuable tool for fostering responsible gambling. In addition, setting deposit and time limits will help you maintain a healthy balance between enjoyment and control. You can also contact gambling support groups for guidance and information on how to play responsibly.
Remember, taking a gambling cool-off helps you reflect, recharge, and approach gaming with a fresh perspective. This ensures that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable experience rather than a cause of stress.
