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Responsible gambling

Gambling is entertainment, not a source of income

Every game of chance carries a mathematical edge in the operator's favour. Over time, losing is the expected outcome. Understanding that is the basis for playing in a controlled way, and for recognising when to stop.

Free and confidential help. The Compulsive Gambling Prevention and Assistance Programme of the Province of Buenos Aires, created by the Institute of Lottery and Casinos together with the provincial Ministry of Health.

0800-444-4000

Free telephone support and a network of assistance centres across the province. You can also call Line 141 (SEDRONAR), free and available 24 hours a day nationwide for questions about problematic consumption.

Warning signs

Problem gambling usually creeps in gradually. These behaviours are worth taking seriously, whether you notice them in yourself or in someone close to you:

  • Staking more money or more time to feel the same interest.
  • Going back to gamble in order to win back losses.
  • Borrowing, selling belongings or using money set aside for essentials.
  • Hiding how much is being gambled or lying about losses.
  • Arguing with family or a partner about gambling.
  • Neglecting work, study or relationships.
  • Feeling irritable or anxious when trying to cut back.

Recognising several of these signs is not a diagnosis, but it is a good reason to talk to a professional. Public healthcare support is free.

Self-control tools

Licensed platforms must offer ways to limit activity. They are set from the user's account, and it is worth switching them on before you start rather than after a bad day:

  • Deposit limit. A daily, weekly or monthly cap on how much money can be paid in.
  • Time or session limit. A reminder or an automatic close once a set duration is reached.
  • Temporary break. Access blocked for a defined period.
  • Self-exclusion. A voluntary, longer-term opt-out. In the Province of Buenos Aires, self-exclusion from gaming venues is handled through the provincial programme and lasts two years.

Practical advice

  • Decide before you play how much you are willing to lose, and treat that amount as the price of entertainment.
  • Never gamble money set aside for rent, food, health or debt.
  • Do not try to win back losses by raising your stakes.
  • Avoid gambling under stress, distress or the influence of alcohol.
  • Watch the clock: set a finishing time and keep to it.
  • Talk about it. Silence is what keeps the problem going.

Protecting minors

Gambling is prohibited for anyone under 18. If you share devices, always log out, avoid saving passwords or payment details in the browser, and consider parental control tools to block access to gambling sites.

Where to get help

  • Buenos Aires Prov. Compulsive Gambling Prevention and Assistance Programme — 0800-444-4000
  • Nationwide Line 141 (SEDRONAR) — free, 24 hours
  • Peer groups Gamblers Anonymous Argentina
  • Official information loteria.gba.gob.ar

If you are going through a difficult time and gambling has become a way to escape it, speaking to a mental health professional is a valid and accessible step. Consultations are free in the public system.