Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself viewing gambling as income or a solution to financial difficulties, it's time to seek help. The house always has an edge, and losing is a real possibility with every bet.
Age Verification & Legal Requirements
You must be 18 years of age or older (or the applicable legal age in your Canadian province) to participate in online gaming. In some provinces, the legal age may be 19. It is illegal for minors to gamble. Parents and guardians should take steps to prevent underage access to gaming sites.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of these apply to you? If so, consider reaching out for support:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Lying to family, friends, or healthcare providers about gambling habits
- Hiding gambling activity or accounts
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, school, family, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Feeling irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Thinking about gambling constantly or planning the next session
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend per day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from gaming platforms for a set period (days, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
- Take Breaks: Step away from gaming regularly to assess your habits
Support & Help Resources for Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canadian Resources:
-
Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
A leading Canadian organization offering information, support, and resources for problem gambling -
Gamblers Anonymous
A peer-support fellowship for people with gambling problems, with meetings across Canada -
Problem Gambling Services in Your Province
Most Canadian provinces offer free counselling services. Contact your provincial health ministry or local gambling helpline for resources specific to your area
International Resources:
-
GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au -
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable. You don't have to face it alone. Whether you're experiencing early warning signs or have a serious gambling problem, professional counsellors and support groups are available to help you regain control.
Contact a gambling helpline in your province, speak with a mental health professional, or visit one of the organizations listed above. Many services are free and confidential.
Your health and well-being matter. Seek help today.