Playing Responsibly

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. If you’ve noticed warning signs in your own behavior or that of someone close to you, it’s important to recognize them early and understand what resources are available.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Problematic gambling typically develops gradually. You might be heading toward problem gambling if you find yourself thinking about games constantly, needing to bet larger amounts to get the same excitement, or feeling restless when you’re not gambling. Other common indicators include unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop, lying about gambling activities, and continuing to gamble despite negative financial or personal consequences. Some people use gambling to escape problems or uncomfortable emotions.

Relationships often suffer first. If friends or family have expressed concern about your gambling, if you’ve borrowed money to fund it, or if gambling is affecting your work or studies, these are signs worth taking seriously.

Tools and Limits in Finland

The Finnish gambling system includes Omarajoitus, a national self-exclusion and deposit limit tool available to users of all licensed operators. Through this system, you can set daily, weekly, or monthly spending limits, exclude yourself from specific gambling activities, or take a complete break from all online gambling. Around 27,500 users in Finland have opted for self-exclusion, and data shows that these tools have contributed to a measurable decline in problem gambling over recent years.

Setting Your Own Boundaries

Before you start gambling, decide on a strict budget—an amount you can afford to lose without affecting essential expenses or savings. Set a time limit as well. Many people find it helpful to use the self-restriction features available on gambling platforms to enforce their decisions automatically rather than relying on willpower alone. Some operators offer reality checks and session timers that remind you how long you’ve been playing.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know needs support, several organizations in Finland offer free, confidential services.

Peluuri operates the main gambling helpline at +358 800 100 101 (toll-free). The service is available weekdays from noon to 6 p.m., with live chat available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. Peluuri also provides information, counseling, and referrals to further treatment.

Pelirajaton runs peer support groups across Finland, bringing together people with shared experiences. These groups meet regularly and provide a space to discuss challenges and recovery strategies.

EHYT ry is a broader harm prevention organization that includes gambling support among its services. It can connect you to specialized counseling and additional resources.

All of these services are designed to help without judgment. Many people benefit from talking to someone trained to listen, whether they’re at the early warning stage or facing serious consequences. Help is available regardless of how long you’ve been gambling or how much money is involved.

The National Police Board’s Gambling Administration oversees regulatory matters in Finland and can provide information about licensed operators and the legal framework around gambling. Your first step doesn’t have to be complicated—a phone call to Peluuri or a conversation with someone you trust can open the door to real support.