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Online gaming for adults is something that much of the UK population enjoy. Whether you’re into League of Legends or classic games like Bingo and Pictionary, there’s a game out there for everyone to enjoy.
Statista revealed that the number of video game users in the UK is projected to reach 57.56 million in 2027, up from 51.21 million gamers in 2023. Online gaming is an area of video gaming that allows players to interact with others who are also playing the game. While online gaming can be a perfectly safe and enjoyable pastime, it does, of course, warrant a level of caution to prevent addictive behaviours from forming.
Here’s what you need to know about managing your online gaming so that you can enjoy it safely.
Online gaming
Online gaming has become increasingly more sophisticated with top-notch technology over the years – and it’s becoming more sociable. Chat room functions and collaborative game-playing allows you to meet and get to know other players. Many regular online gamers even make friends over time. There’s an undeniable community element to online gaming.
Are you gaming a bit too much?
There are signs to look out for if you suspect that you or another person is gaming a little too often. They can be subtle, so it requires diligence and attention to detail. Signs of gaming or gambling related harm typically include:
- Prioritising online gaming over everything else
- Attempting to cut back and failing to commit to this
- Frequently using it as an escape from reality
- Experiencing irritation or restlessness when trying to reduce time spent online gaming
- Experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety due to online gaming
Setting online limits
Having the ability to set limits while online gaming can help to ensure you’re engaging with it safely and responsibly. For example, if you enjoy playing the new deal or no deal bingo game by tombola, you can use their safe play settings to set limits
Reputable bingo sites like tombola have special safety functions that allow you to set deposit or stake limits. Additional time-keeping tools can also help you keep track of the time you’re spending on each session. You can even trigger functions that block you from a specific site for a set period.
Seeking support
If you, or someone close to you, has recognised unhealthy or addictive behaviours when it comes to online gaming, it may be time to seek help outside of the in-house support offered by the games you may be playing.
GamCare is the leading provider of help and support for those impacted by gambling, for instance. They have a 24/7 helpline you can access to seek support. If you are looking to take control of your gambling consider using the tool GAMSTOP. Once you register GAMSTOP will prevent you from using gambling websites and apps during a time frame set by you.
To conclude…
Understanding whether you are playing safely and within your means is essential, otherwise what might appear to be a simple pastime could be doing more damage than you might expect.