Beginner tips: How not to fall into the thrill trap


Gambling can be fun, but without rules it quickly develops into a serious problem. Below is a detailed action plan for those who are just starting out and want to keep control of the risks.

1. Define a clear financial limit

1. Allocate a budget for leisure

Don't mix "gaming" money with everyday spending.
For example, 5% -10% of free funds per month.

2. Set hard loss limits

Maximum 20% of the allocated budget for one session.
Upon reaching - automatic completion of the game until the next period.

3. Determine the winning objective

For example, + 25% to the session budget.
Once the goal is achieved - stop, record the result.

2. Game selection and understanding of chances

1. Start with low dispersion

Blackjack, video poker, high RTP wheeled games (> 97%).
This reduces sharp fluctuations in balance.

2. Learn basic strategy

For blackjack, a basic decision table.
For video poker - the best choice of cards for exchange.

3. Avoid "wark slots" at the start

Slots with high dispersion give rare, but large winnings → the risk of "draining."
If you do play slots, choose machines with frequent payments.

3. Clear game session process

1. Plan before kick-off

```
Date: 2025-08-07
Session budget: 1,000 ₴
Loss limit: 200 ₴
Winning goal: + 250 ₴
Time: 19: 00-19: 45
Max. bets: 20
```

2. Structure your session

Duration: 30-45 minutes, then a break of at least 24 hours.
Pause every 5-10 bets for "reality check": reconciliation of fact with plan.

3. Log in real time

Simple form: time, bet, result, emotions (boredom, excitement, irritation).
At the end of the session - final figures and a brief conclusion.

4. Emotional and behavioral control

1. Three breath technique

If you wish, "another round" - stop, take three deep breaths.
Often the desire passes in 30 seconds.

2. Critical question

"Am I playing for fun or trying to win back?"
If you answer "recoup" - stop immediately.

3. Practice mindfulness

5 min before the session starts - concentrate on breathing.
Reduces impulsivity and increases awareness.

5. Automation of barriers

1. Block sites and apps

StayFocusd, LeechBlock: limit of 30-45 minutes of access to gaming platforms per day.
Set up a smart schedule that eliminates peak temptation hours.

2. Stop limits in the bank

Automatic denial of top-up when X ₴ loss is reached.
Can be configured through the bank's mobile application.

3. Timers and Notifications

Smartwatch or phone timer: beep at the end of a session.
Push notifications about approaching limits.

6. Responsibility and Reporting

1. Control Partner

Choose a friend or family member you trust.
Daily short report: "I did not go beyond the plan."

2. Support groups

Gamblers Anonymous, online communities: regular meetings and sharing experiences.
Introduce an element of social responsibility.

3. Public fixation of goals

Closed chats or instant messengers: publish your plan and results to stimulate discipline.

7. Regular review and adjustment

1. Weekly review

Tabulate: dates, budgets, losses, gains, emotions, breakdowns.
Identify triggers - days of the week, time of day, emotional states.

2. Parameter adjustment

If you regularly exceed the limits, reduce them by 20%.
If you never reach the goal of winning, reconsider the variance of the games or the size of the bets.

3. Rewards for success

Small gifts to yourself (book, walk) for a series of X sessions without violations.
Supports motivation and reinforces the habit of control.

8. Long-term prevention practices

1. Financial planning

Monthly "entertainment" budget no more than 5% of income.
Auto transfer to a savings account immediately after paycheck.

2. Alternative leisure activities

Sports, hobbies, meetings with friends - instead of game sessions.
Help reduce addiction to excitement.

3. Learning and growth

Books and courses on probability theory, risk psychology, emotion management.
The more you understand the mechanics of the casino and your own reactions, the easier it is to maintain control.

Result

It is important for beginners to immediately build a risk protection system: a clear financial framework, a choice of games with low variance, a structured session process, emotional control, automation of barriers and social responsibility. Regular analysis and adjustment of the rules will help turn excitement into safe entertainment, not a source of problems.