How not to chase losses (chasing losses)
Introduction
"Chasing losses" is an attempt to win back lost funds, making new bets of an ever larger size. This is one of the key reasons for the development of problematic behavior: a player who is passionate about "compensation" quickly accumulates debts, increases stress and loses control over expenses.
The mechanism of the "race for losses"
1. Cognitive distortion: the belief that past failures "should" be compensated for by the next victory, although games are inherently independent.
2. Emotional impulse: The growing sense of anxiety and frustration after each loss pushes for riskier bets.
3. Escalation of bets: gradual increase in the amount and frequency of bets for "quick" wagering.
4. Violation of limits: having lost the established budgets, players continue the game through new accounts or additional financial sources.
Why 'chasing losses' is dangerous
The increase in total losses: attempts to recoup rarely end in success, and consecutive losses quickly eat up the bank.
Deterioration of emotional state: stress, anxiety, deterioration of sleep and mood.
Financial risks: the use of credit cards and loans, the accumulation of debts, the risk of delinquencies and fines.
Social and family consequences: conflicts with loved ones, isolation, loss of trust and supportive environment.
Psychological triggers
1. The effect of lost investments (sunk cost fallacy): the desire to "save" the money already spent.
2. Impulsiveness: quick, unintelligible decisions under the pressure of emotion.
3. The phenomenon of "almost winning": the feeling of "practically out," stimulating another bet.
4. Social impact: Advice from friends or advice from "insiders" fuels expectations of quick success.
Strategies to prevent a losing race
1. Clear budgeting
An isolated gaming bank: start a separate account with a fixed amount for bets - not a penny more.
Hard time and money limits: set daily and session maximums through the operator's functionality.
The principle of "noniversing": if you have reached the limit, do not acquire additional sources of money for bets.
2. Automatic control tools
Deposit and rate limits: set the maximum amount for a day/week/month through the operator's personal account.
Autopause: Turn on timers that automatically block play for a set period after a series of bets or losses.
"Self-exclusion" function: at the first signs of loss of control, voluntarily suspend the account for 24 hours-6 months.
3. Emotional self-regulation
Pause "for cooling": after three to five losing bets, take a break for at least 15-20 minutes.
Diary of well-being and bets: record each session: date, amount, result, emotions. This will reveal "race" patterns.
Alternative actions: switch to physical activity, communication or hobbies when you want to recoup.
4. A rational approach to decision-making
Clear betting strategy: Predefine game types and betting criteria (odds, risk).
Evaluation of mathematical expectations: get acquainted with the concept of "home advantage" and average RTP (return to player).
Avoid "fast" games: slots and gambling machines with high volatility most provoke a "race for losses."
Practical examples of using tools
1. Player A set a weekly limit of 300 AUD. After three losing sessions, the application automatically blocked the possibility of betting, which gave time to assess the situation and not get into a loan.
2. Player B kept a diary and soon noticed that the desire to recoup arises immediately after the loss of more than 20% of the bankroll. Using a timer every 30 minutes, he pauses, analyzing previous solutions.
3. Player B used the self-exclusion function for 48 hours after losing 500 AUD and turned to Gambler's Help to consult and develop new habits.
Support Resources
Gambler's Help Hotline: 1800 858 858
Lifeline (crisis support): 13 11 14
Sites and applications: BeGambleAware, Gambler's Mind, operator sections "Responsible play"
Conclusion
The "race to lose" is a destructive mechanism that destroys the budget and emotional balance. Clear budgeting, automatic restrictions, emotional pauses and rational betting strategies help you stop in time and maintain control. Use the available responsible play tools in Australia, record your actions and at the first sign of "chasing losses" switch to alternative activities or contact the relevant services for support.
"Chasing losses" is an attempt to win back lost funds, making new bets of an ever larger size. This is one of the key reasons for the development of problematic behavior: a player who is passionate about "compensation" quickly accumulates debts, increases stress and loses control over expenses.
The mechanism of the "race for losses"
1. Cognitive distortion: the belief that past failures "should" be compensated for by the next victory, although games are inherently independent.
2. Emotional impulse: The growing sense of anxiety and frustration after each loss pushes for riskier bets.
3. Escalation of bets: gradual increase in the amount and frequency of bets for "quick" wagering.
4. Violation of limits: having lost the established budgets, players continue the game through new accounts or additional financial sources.
Why 'chasing losses' is dangerous
The increase in total losses: attempts to recoup rarely end in success, and consecutive losses quickly eat up the bank.
Deterioration of emotional state: stress, anxiety, deterioration of sleep and mood.
Financial risks: the use of credit cards and loans, the accumulation of debts, the risk of delinquencies and fines.
Social and family consequences: conflicts with loved ones, isolation, loss of trust and supportive environment.
Psychological triggers
1. The effect of lost investments (sunk cost fallacy): the desire to "save" the money already spent.
2. Impulsiveness: quick, unintelligible decisions under the pressure of emotion.
3. The phenomenon of "almost winning": the feeling of "practically out," stimulating another bet.
4. Social impact: Advice from friends or advice from "insiders" fuels expectations of quick success.
Strategies to prevent a losing race
1. Clear budgeting
An isolated gaming bank: start a separate account with a fixed amount for bets - not a penny more.
Hard time and money limits: set daily and session maximums through the operator's functionality.
The principle of "noniversing": if you have reached the limit, do not acquire additional sources of money for bets.
2. Automatic control tools
Deposit and rate limits: set the maximum amount for a day/week/month through the operator's personal account.
Autopause: Turn on timers that automatically block play for a set period after a series of bets or losses.
"Self-exclusion" function: at the first signs of loss of control, voluntarily suspend the account for 24 hours-6 months.
3. Emotional self-regulation
Pause "for cooling": after three to five losing bets, take a break for at least 15-20 minutes.
Diary of well-being and bets: record each session: date, amount, result, emotions. This will reveal "race" patterns.
Alternative actions: switch to physical activity, communication or hobbies when you want to recoup.
4. A rational approach to decision-making
Clear betting strategy: Predefine game types and betting criteria (odds, risk).
Evaluation of mathematical expectations: get acquainted with the concept of "home advantage" and average RTP (return to player).
Avoid "fast" games: slots and gambling machines with high volatility most provoke a "race for losses."
Practical examples of using tools
1. Player A set a weekly limit of 300 AUD. After three losing sessions, the application automatically blocked the possibility of betting, which gave time to assess the situation and not get into a loan.
2. Player B kept a diary and soon noticed that the desire to recoup arises immediately after the loss of more than 20% of the bankroll. Using a timer every 30 minutes, he pauses, analyzing previous solutions.
3. Player B used the self-exclusion function for 48 hours after losing 500 AUD and turned to Gambler's Help to consult and develop new habits.
Support Resources
Gambler's Help Hotline: 1800 858 858
Lifeline (crisis support): 13 11 14
Sites and applications: BeGambleAware, Gambler's Mind, operator sections "Responsible play"
Conclusion
The "race to lose" is a destructive mechanism that destroys the budget and emotional balance. Clear budgeting, automatic restrictions, emotional pauses and rational betting strategies help you stop in time and maintain control. Use the available responsible play tools in Australia, record your actions and at the first sign of "chasing losses" switch to alternative activities or contact the relevant services for support.
