Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online betting and casino games are designed to be a form of entertainment. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and losing is a real possibility. Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Canada, you must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in your province to participate in online betting. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under the legal age, please do not access gambling websites.
Parents and guardians: If you are concerned about a young person's access to gambling sites, please monitor their online activity and speak with them about the risks.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of these apply to you? If so, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to try to recover what you've lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Neglecting work, school, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessfully trying to cut back or quit gambling
- Risking important relationships, job, or educational opportunities
- Experiencing financial hardship due to gambling losses
If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos and betting sites offer tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit per day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Take a temporary break from gambling for hours, days, or weeks
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling sites for a set period or permanently
- Account Closure: Permanently close your gambling account if needed
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling.
Get Help – Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organizations in Canada and internationally:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org – Resources and support for Canadians
- Gamblers Anonymous Canada: Free peer support meetings across Canada
- Provincial Gambling Help Lines: Contact your province's health authority for local support services
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
- Gambling Help Online (Australia): www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Many of these organizations offer confidential counseling, support groups, and financial advice at no cost.
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for help today. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and recovery is possible. The longer you wait, the more serious the consequences can become.
Contact the Responsible Gambling Council at www.responsiblegambling.org or speak with a counselor in your province. You can also visit your doctor or local mental health services for a referral.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support is available, and you are not alone.
Disclaimer: This responsible gaming information is provided for educational purposes. By accessing online betting or casino sites, you acknowledge the risks involved and commit to gambling responsibly. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services in your area.