Currently, Virginia boasts restrictive gambling regulations: while many entertainment opportunities, including sports betting and land-based venues, are accessible to the state residents, online casinos are strictly prohibited. Local government doesn’t hurry up to change the existing regulations despite the high consumer demand, and potential gaming-related problems are the main reason. Regulatory authorities implement all the ways to prevent this disorder among the population, but a total ban is not always a solution. Passionate risk-seekers still find gambling opportunities, which can become even more harmful in the long run. Self-exclusion can be a working tool for legalized gaming sites – let’s explore the main benefits of this option.

Efficiency of Self-Exclusion Tools in the iGaming Market

Using gambling blockers and other tools to ban access to potentially harmful content is on the agenda in 2024, and many authorities are considering this approach. Currently, the UK is the only country to implement a mandatory nationwide self-exclusion that has already shown positive results. GamStop allows restricting access to gambling and betting sites for the chosen period. Over 80% of its participants reported the program’s efficiency. On the other hand, operators listed on NonStopCasino offer more opportunities and flexibility to players, so they often opt for platforms outside British jurisdiction.

Current iGaming Landscape in Virginia

Many US states have legalized online casinos, but Virginia is not among them. However, locals seem to still find ways to enjoy this risky pastime since up to 10% of the young male population suffers from gambling-related problems. Authorities are concerned about such a high addiction rate, but the challenge can worsen even more in the future. Constant discussions are held on this point, and some experts are confident that making the sector legal and regulated and complementing it with a self-exclusion tool will eventually bring more benefits.

Using the UK’s Example: Advantages of Self-Exclusion

The US has recently launched NVSEP (National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program), which aims to cope with gambling problems among the American population and offer working tools for eliminating compulsive habits. The tool only covers five states: Colorado, Michigan, Iowa, California, and Tennessee. However, the program is projected to be extended in the future and operate nationwide like GamStop.

Self-Exclusions Are Non-Reversible

Users signing up for GamStop and similar tools cannot change their minds and cancel the self-exclusion. Instead, they have to finish the blocking period before returning to casino activities. Many self-exclusion participants mention reduced cravings for uncontrolled gambling. The inability to reach chosen gaming platforms often motivates customers to switch to other entertainment opportunities and recover from harmful habits.

Users Get Access to Additional Support Tools

GamStop and other similar self-exclusion software don’t only restrict access to gambling sites but also provide customers with the necessary support and treatment. Participants receive detailed guidance on further actions and ways to accelerate the recovery, which is beneficial for those struggling with compulsive habits. Coping with gambling issues with additional assistance is easier for affected individuals since they don’t have to search for therapies independently.

Informing Customers of the Responsible Gambling Approach

Increasing awareness of Virginia customers about the possible negative consequences of uncontrolled gambling is critical for the regulatory authorities. Users who have already developed a healthy attitude toward online casinos and know how to plan their time and expenses are less likely to suffer from addiction. Therefore, self-exclusion should become a part of a broader safer gaming campaign. A set of initiatives for reducing gambling harms is the most efficient method for coping with potential challenges and decreasing the sector’s impact on the population’s well-being.

Investment in Mental Health and Social Responsibility

Many underestimate the severity of gambling addiction, but this disorder can result in multiple problems. Constant anxiety when not playing casinos, depression, and suicidal thoughts are the common symptoms of this disorder. Such conditions require time-consuming and long-lasting treatment, and ignoring the issue can result in worsened mental health conditions among the state’s residents. Instead, self-exclusion offers a well-developed approach for coping with the disorder and providing compulsive individuals with the necessary support.

Challenges of Self-Exclusion

Undeniably, GamStop-like tools are not the one-stop solution for preventing gambling disorders if online casinos are legalized in Virginia. Passionate players still find ways to get around the ban and join alternative platforms without self-exclusion. Therefore, the regulatory authority should consider other means of preventing gaming harm. This includes a well-thought-out informational policy and implementing limitations for vulnerable populations. Enhanced identity checks and restrictions for those prone to gambling problems should also become a part of the program.

The Final Word

Currently, players from Virginia cannot legally access online casinos in the state, but the situation can change in the future. If local authorities allow this entertainment, they should consider measures to minimize gambling harm. A mandatory exclusion tool can become a viable solution for treating users with compulsive habits and increasing the population’s awareness about the risks they take when joining real-money gaming sites.

 

Disclaimer:

Gamble responsibly. You must be 21 years old or older to gamble. If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER.