Gambling should be treated as entertainment, not a way to make money or resolve financial pressure. This page provides practical information for people visiting Coral and gambling online in Ireland, including steps that can help keep play controlled and within your means.
You must be 18+ to gamble. Never gamble on behalf of another person, and do not use gambling services if you are under the legal age. Take time to understand the risks before playing, particularly when using games or bets that can produce rapid results.
If gambling is causing worry, arguments, debt, secrecy or difficulty managing everyday responsibilities, stop and seek support. You do not need to wait until the situation feels severe before speaking with someone you trust or contacting GamblingCare.ie.
Limits and self-control
Set a spending limit before you begin and treat it as the maximum you can afford to lose. Use a separate gambling budget rather than money intended for rent, bills, food, savings or other essentials. A time limit can also help prevent a short session from continuing longer than planned.
Avoid chasing losses by increasing stakes or continuing to play in the hope of recovering money. Take regular breaks, do not gamble when upset or under the influence of alcohol, and keep a clear record of deposits and spending. If you find it difficult to follow your own limits, stop playing and use available blocking or self-exclusion options.
Signs of problem play
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Warning signs may include spending more than planned, thinking about gambling throughout the day, hiding activity from family, borrowing money, missing work or commitments, or feeling restless when trying to stop.
Other signs include returning to gamble after deciding to quit, placing larger bets to feel the same excitement, using gambling to escape stress, and experiencing guilt or anxiety afterwards. Seeing one or more of these signs is a reason to pause, talk openly with someone you trust and seek confidential advice.
Where to get help
GamblingCare.ie provides information and support for people affected by gambling in Ireland, including family members and friends. Its services can help you consider practical next steps, discuss concerns confidentially and find support suited to your circumstances.
If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or attend your nearest emergency department. For non-urgent concerns, speak with a GP or a qualified support professional. Asking for help is a sensible action, not a failure.
Platform tools
Depending on the service and account features available, safer-gambling tools may include deposit limits, session reminders, reality checks, time-outs and self-exclusion. Review the settings before you play and choose limits that reflect your actual budget, rather than an amount you hope to afford later.
Self-exclusion is a stronger step for anyone who wants to stop gambling for a set period or longer. Do not create another account or use someone else’s account to get around a restriction. If a tool is unclear or you need help using it, contact [email protected] and explain what you need without sharing unnecessary sensitive information.