Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online casino gaming is meant to be a form of entertainment and should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember that all casino games are games of chance, and the house always has a mathematical advantage. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and always set limits before you begin.
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 casino gaming. Some provinces have higher age restrictions. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet the legal gambling age requirements in your jurisdiction before creating an account or placing any bets.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Keeping your gambling secret from friends, family, or partners
- Increasing Bets: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Loss of Control: Unable to stick to your betting limits or stop gambling when you want to
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or social commitments due to gambling
- Financial Problems: Using borrowed money, credit cards, or savings to fund gambling
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when not gambling
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling restless or irritable when trying to reduce gambling
- Relationship Strain: Conflicts with loved ones about your gambling habits
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gambling Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount of losses you're willing to accept in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders during gaming sessions about how long and how much you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online casino for a set period or indefinitely
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Resources and support for problem gambling in Canada - Gamblers Anonymous Canada
A 12-step support program with meetings across Canada
International Resources
- GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free, confidential support and advice - GamStop (UK)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counseling and information - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Resources and helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. If you're experiencing difficulty controlling your gambling or believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for support immediately. There is no shame in seeking help — taking action is a sign of strength.
Contact the Responsible Gambling Council or a local counselor in your province to discuss your situation confidentially. You can also speak with your doctor, who can provide referrals to mental health professionals who specialize in gambling addiction.
Remember: Your wellbeing matters. Get help today.