Responsible Gaming
Introduction
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Remember that the house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Canada is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older (19+ in some provinces). It is illegal for minors to participate in gambling activities. All players must verify their age before creating an account or placing wagers.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or loved ones
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down on gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money to finance gambling activities
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools
Many online casinos offer the following responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you are willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your account to take a break from gambling
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Request a temporary suspension of your account (typically 24 hours to several weeks)
Take advantage of these tools to help manage your gaming responsibly.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you are struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact one of these trusted organizations:
-
Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides resources, counseling referrals, and support for problem gamblers across Canada -
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Offers support and referrals for North American players -
GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Provides free, confidential support and counseling services -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free and confidential counseling and support
Many provinces in Canada also offer provincial problem gambling helplines and counseling services. Contact your local health authority for resources in your area.
Call to Action
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling can have serious consequences for your mental health, finances, and relationships. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Reach out to one of the organizations listed above, speak with a counselor, or confide in a trusted friend or family member. You do not have to face this alone.
Gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.