Expert lists 5 practical steps for responsible gambling.

Gambling became one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Brazil in 2025. However, along with the growth of the market in the country, a public health warning has emerged: the increase in the number of cases of compulsive gambling. It is estimated that among two million gamblers, the practice has gone beyond the limits of entertainment and become a clinical case of gambling addiction.

Therefore, prevention is one of the solutions to avoid gambling from evolving into compulsive behavior. According to psychologist Aline Esteves, a specialist in gambling addiction, a person addicted to gambling can develop symptoms that are detrimental to their emotional and professional health, such as social isolation, debt, and mood swings.

“People with compulsive gambling behavior hide the problem and resort to loans, credit cards, and even illegal practices to continue gambling. Furthermore, the constant frustration with losses, coupled with the hope of recovering what they have lost, generates a cycle of suffering,” emphasizes the psychologist from the Institute for Gambler Support.

Still, it's possible to prevent gambling from becoming a problem in a gambler's life through practical tips. According to the IAA expert, by taking the necessary precautions during the activity, gambling remains a safe form of entertainment.

The same applies to those who have already had to take a break from betting; when returning to gambling, it's also important to understand what to consider when betting again.

"It's possible to avoid compulsive gambling by setting time and money limits, understanding your triggers, and replacing risky behavior with healthy habits," Aline points out.

⇒ Set time and money limits.

The first step, according to the psychologist, is to establish clear limits to maintain balance. "It's not just about betting less, but about being more conscious. Defining how much time and money you can dedicate to gambling is already a step towards self-care," she emphasizes.

Pay attention to the warning signs.

Gambling often starts as a hobby, but signs such as needing to increase the amounts wagered, lying about playing time, or frustration when trying to stop may indicate addiction.

⇒ Get to know your emotional triggers

Identifying emotions that stimulate the desire to gamble is essential to prevent suffering from leading to a search for immediate reward. Some examples include boredom, anxiety, frustration, and loneliness.

"Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (a psychotherapeutic approach) has proven effective in this process, helping the individual to reframe automatic thoughts and associations about the game," he explains.

⇒ Talk about the subject and learn about the risks.

According to Aline Esteves, talking about the problem is fundamental. "Seeking professional help and participating in groups like those of the IAA is a powerful way to break the silence and strengthen the support network," says the psychologist.

Furthermore, knowing the real chances of winning and understanding that "easy money" is a myth helps to dismantle the illusion that sustains addiction. In fact, this is one of the guidelines of Brazilian legislation to allow gamblers more awareness and control when betting.

Replace unhealthy behaviors with healthy practices.

Healthy activities such as sports, music, art, cooking, or volunteering can be alternatives to occupy time and reduce the urge to gamble. "It helps fill the void that often leads to compulsive gambling," concludes the psychologist.

Finally, Aline points out that gambling addiction is a disorder without a cure, but with effective treatment. Regaining control and improving mental health are possible through support and specialized care.

The Gambler Support Institute provides individual psychological support, support groups, and financial consulting for gamblers and their families. The organization emphasizes that information is the primary tool for prevention and that discussing the topic is essential to reducing the impact of gambling addiction.

Furthermore, gamblers who show signs of compulsive or uncontrolled gambling need to seek specialized treatment to regain control over their addiction.

About the Gambler Support Institute

The Gambler Support Institute is a non-profit organization (NGO) in Niterói responsible for the prevention and recovery of gambling addiction. The specialized support offered is free, confidential, and humane for compulsive gamblers and their families.

With the mission of welcoming, raising awareness, and transforming, IAA was created to provide real support to those facing this struggle that grows every day in Brazil. In the last year, more than 15 individual consultations were carried out, in addition to weekly support group sessions and financial consulting.

The institution is also responsible for conducting educational campaigns and sharing informational materials to educate society about the risks of compulsive gambling, its financial impacts, and how it affects thousands of families in the country.