Responsible Gambling Resources

Gambling should be entertainment. When it stops being fun or starts causing problems, it is time to step back. This page provides information about responsible gambling practices, warning signs to watch for, and resources available to Canadian players who need support.

What Responsible Gambling Means

Responsible gambling means treating gambling as entertainment rather than a way to make money. It means setting limits before you play, sticking to those limits, and being honest with yourself about your gambling habits.

No gambling system guarantees wins. The house always has an edge, and over time, most players lose more than they win. Understanding this helps keep gambling in perspective as a form of entertainment with a cost, similar to going to a movie or concert.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Watch for these warning signs in yourself or others:

Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
Chasing losses by betting more to try to win back what you lost
Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities because of gambling
Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble
Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back on gambling
Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of anxiety or depression
Returning to gamble again after losing money (trying to get even)
Making repeated unsuccessful attempts to control or stop gambling
Risking important relationships, jobs, or opportunities because of gambling

If you recognize several of these signs, consider taking a break from gambling and seeking support.

Tools to Stay in Control

Most licensed gambling sites offer tools to help you manage your gambling. These features put you in control of your spending and time.

Deposit Limits. Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps on how much you can deposit. Once you reach your limit, you cannot add more funds until the period resets. Set these limits before you start playing, when you can think clearly about what you can afford.

Loss Limits. Similar to deposit limits, but based on actual losses rather than deposits. When you hit your loss limit, you are blocked from further play.

Session Time Limits. Set reminders or hard stops after a certain amount of playing time. These help prevent extended sessions where you lose track of time.

Reality Checks. Pop-up notifications that show how long you have been playing and your win/loss status. These periodic reminders help you stay aware of your session.

Cool-Off Periods. Short breaks (24 hours to 30 days) where you cannot access your account. Useful when you need time away but are not ready for full self-exclusion.

Self-Exclusion. Longer-term blocks (6 months to several years or permanently) that prevent you from gambling on a site or across multiple sites. Self-exclusion is a serious step for when you need a complete break.

Tips for Gambling Responsibly

Set a budget before you play and stick to it. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Set a time limit for your gambling sessions. Use alarms or the site's built-in tools.
Do not chase losses. Accept that losing is part of gambling and walk away when you hit your limit.
Do not gamble when upset, stressed, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Take regular breaks. Step away from the screen to maintain perspective.
Balance gambling with other activities. It should not be your only source of entertainment.
Never borrow money to gamble. If you cannot afford to play, do not play.
Keep track of your gambling. Review your transaction history regularly.

Resources for Canadian Players

If gambling is causing problems in your life, free and confidential help is available across Canada.

Responsible Gambling Council (RGC). A national organization providing information, resources, and support. Visit responsiblegambling.org for self-assessment tools, information about problem gambling, and links to provincial resources.

Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. Provides information about gambling addiction alongside other substance use issues. Visit ccsa.ca for research and resources.

Provincial Support Services. Each province operates helplines and support services for problem gambling. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7 in most provinces. Contact your provincial health authority or search for gambling help in your province to find local resources.

Many gambling sites also partner with support organizations and can connect you with help directly through their responsible gambling pages.

When to Seek Help

There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is recognized as an addiction, and effective treatments exist. If gambling is affecting your finances, relationships, work, or mental health, reaching out to a support service is a positive step.

You do not need to hit rock bottom before seeking help. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. If you are concerned about your gambling, talk to a counselor, call a helpline, or use the self-exclusion tools available at your gambling sites.