If you do not control the game, the game controls you.
This page is not a disclaimer. It is information that can save you money, time and relationships. Read it, dial a number if you need to, come back when you are ready.
Signs something is wrong
One of these signs in isolation means nothing. Three or more in the past few weeks is a red flag.
- You bet more money than you can afford to lose this month.
- You have lied about how much you bet (to a partner, family, friends).
- You bet to recover what you have lost (chasing).
- You have borrowed money or used credit to bet.
- You skip meals, sleep or work to bet.
- You feel guilt, anxiety or irritation when you cannot bet.
- You no longer enjoy other things the way you used to.
- You have tried to stop more than once and have not managed.
Professional help (free, anonymous)
You do not need to be "already in deep trouble" to call. These lines also help with doubts, prevention and orientation. Numbers below are Spain-focused; if you are outside Spain, search for the national problem-gambling helpline in your country — most have one.
Tools you have at hand
National self-exclusion register (RGIAJ — Spain)
You exclude yourself from ALL DGOJ-licensed operators in Spain in one go, online and physical. Single request at ordenacionjuego.es/rgiaj. You choose the duration (minimum 6 months); once that period ends you are NOT reactivated automatically. Most European countries have an equivalent register — look up GAMSTOP (UK), OASIS (Germany), CRUKS (Netherlands), ROFUS (Denmark).
Per-operator self-exclusion
Every regulated bookmaker has a button on their website to self-exclude from that operator only. It is quicker but it does NOT block you from the others.
Deposit and stake limits
Every regulated operator must offer deposit limits (daily, weekly, monthly) and session time limits. Set them BEFORE things get out of hand, not after.
Loss calculator
To understand how much betting has really cost you over time, use /en/calculadora-perdidas. The number usually surprises.
If you are in crisis right now. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or feel there is no way out, in Spain call 024 (suicide prevention line, 24/7, free, anonymous). In other countries, dial your local emergency number or find a crisis line at findahelpline.com. Do not wait until tomorrow.
+18. Gambling can cause pathological dependency. The Simulator and the Quiniela are educational tools with a virtual bankroll, not games of chance. Real betting only at operators licensed in your jurisdiction.