How does the Christmas season influence gambling behavior?

In a recent press release, the Joint Gambling Authority of the German federal states (GGL) warns that the Christmas holidays in particular can have an impact on gambling behavior. But what are the reasons why players gamble more often and more excessively at Christmas than in everyday life?

Just a few days ago, we at GambleJoe answered the question of which arcades and casinos are open at Christmas. Now the GGL is warning that the holidays can have an impact on people's gambling behavior. Specifically, it argues that people have more free time during the Christmas holidays and at the same time experience above-average levels of emotional stress during this time. This is often triggered by family disputes or dissatisfaction with one's own life situation. The risk of those affected taking refuge in largely anonymous online gambling is said to be correspondingly high.

Is gambling used to cope with stress and bad feelings?

At Christmas, everyone's aim is probably to enjoy the holidays in a relaxed atmosphere with their loved ones. However, the last few days of the year are not always the most contemplative. It is not uncommon for family arguments and other emotional stress to occur, especially during the Christmas holidays. As a result, some people seek an outlet for their stress in online gambling. For this reason, many online casinos record above-average turnover during the Christmas period.

Gambling operators fuel this trend by increasing their advertising and attractive bonuses, especially in the run-up to Christmas. It was only on St. Nicholas Day that we at GambleJoe asked ourselves what attractive promotions there are to discover in online casinos at Christmas 2024. It's no surprise that promising bonuses can increase users' willingness to gamble.

GGL warns urgently against illegal gambling offers

It is interesting to note that the gambling authority based in Halle (Saale) warns in particular of the risks associated with illegal gambling providers in its press release dated December 16, 2024. According to the press release, illegal casinos pose a "high risk of financial losses, fraud and legal consequences".

The fact is that, strictly speaking, it is a criminal offence for players from Germany to play in an online casino without a German license. The official whitelist provides information on which providers have a license for which type of gambling. We have already presented the best Christmas slots 2024 elsewhere on GambleJoe.

Official whitelist: Overview of permitted gambling providers

British player protection organization also warns of dangers at Christmas

The well-known British player protection organization GamCare is also warning these days that the risk of problem gambling can be significantly higher at Christmas. According to a recent GamCare study, more than one in two respondents with problematic gambling behavior stated that they also spend money on gambling at Christmas that was actually planned for food or presents.

What's more, loneliness at Christmas can lead people to flee into the world of online gambling. Instead, the player protection organization recommends using the Christmas period to talk about the problem with family or friends and seek professional help.

Guide: Official offers of help for problematic gambling behavior

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