Swiss casinos are stepping up measures to protect against gambling addiction and excessive gambling. They are implementing an agreement between Switzerland and Liechtenstein under which gambling bans are also valid in the other country.
This agreement entered into force on January 7, 2025. As of that date, all active gaming bans imposed by Swiss land-based and online casinos also apply to casinos in Liechtenstein. Similarly, gaming bans imposed by casinos in Liechtenstein also apply to Swiss casinos as of that date.
It should also be noted that a gambling ban imposed in Switzerland is generally valid indefinitely. The affected person is therefore barred from participating in the aforementioned casino games as well as major online games (such as Lotto, EuroMillions, etc.). A request to lift the gambling ban must be submitted to the casino where the ban was imposed.
Gaming is a fundamental form of human activity. Games contribute to the development of skills and to well-being. Gaming at the GRAND CASINO BASEL is intended to be enjoyable and to provide a varied leisure activity.
In some cases, however, gambling behavior can spiral out of control and become a serious disorder. This form of pathological gambling is known as gambling addiction or pathological gambling and is associated with significant personal suffering for those affected and their families.
Among the casino staff, you will find a knowledgeable person to turn to for any issues related to gambling. We would also be happy to put you in touch with the Counseling and Information Center for Gambling Problems at the University Psychiatric Hospital.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
Unlike normal gambling, pathological gambling is characterized by a loss of control on the part of the gambler, a lack of honesty regarding the extent to which the gambler is affected, disruptions to family and professional life, and a constant need to “chase losses” in order to recoup them. Gambling becomes the central goal in life, a dominant need.
1.
During this phase, players have their first positive experiences with gambling. They often win at the beginning, which boosts their self-esteem and creates a stronger attachment to gambling. Their gambling behavior tends to be low-risk. Financial losses are acceptable, and the amount is determined in advance. Gambling is limited to leisure time and provides excitement, fun, and relaxation.
2.
During this phase, the intensity of gambling increases. Gamblers choose riskier forms of gambling with higher stakes. Losses exceed winnings, and the usual attempt to recoup those losses begins. Debt mounts. Family and work problems increasingly arise in the form of unreliability or negligence. Losses are downplayed, and debt repayment is delayed.
3.
The gambler has completely lost control over his behavior and is unable to stop gambling of his own accord. Gambling has become the central focus of his life. Work obligations and other interests are neglected. Excessive gambling and obtaining money are the main focus of his daily life.
Personality changes and social decline characterize this stage of gambling addiction. The gambler is caught in a vicious cycle.
