Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and maintain control over your gaming habits.
Remember: The house always has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Canada, you must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal age in your province/territory) to participate in online casino gaming. Some provinces have specific regulations:
- Ontario: 19+ years old
- Alberta: 18+ years old
- British Columbia: 19+ years old
- Quebec: 18+ years old
It is your responsibility to verify your age before registering. Underage gambling is illegal.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate problematic gambling behavior:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about the time or money spent
- Feeling the need to gamble with increasingly larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Becoming irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Neglecting family, work, school, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or control gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or difficult emotions
- Experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts related to gambling losses
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to prevent extended gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications to remind you of the time and money you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from an online casino account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide to stop gaming
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Resources for Canadians
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Information and resources for problem gambling in Canada
- Problem Gambling Services in Your Province:
- Ontario: ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600
- Alberta: Alberta Health Services Addiction and Mental Health
- British Columbia: BC Gambling Helpline 1-888-795-6111
- Quebec: Joueurs Anonymes and Jeu Aide
International Resources
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
- United Kingdom: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk and GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
All of these services offer confidential support and can be accessed by phone, online chat, or in-person counseling.
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is a recognized disorder, and professional support can make a real difference.
Contact one of the organizations listed above, speak with your family doctor, or reach out to a mental health professional. There is no shame in asking for help — many people have successfully addressed problem gambling with proper support.
Your well-being is important to us. Game responsibly.