Responsible Gaming

Taking control of your gambling habits starts with simple, practical steps. These strategies help you maintain a healthy relationship with online gaming:

• Set a budget before you play and stick to it, no matter what happens
• Decide how much time you’ll spend gambling and use timers or alarms
• Never chase losses by betting more to recover what you’ve lost
• Take regular breaks during gaming sessions to maintain perspective
• Avoid gambling when you’re stressed, upset, or under the influence of alcohol
• Keep gambling separate from other activities like work or family time
• Track your spending and time to stay aware of your habits
• Use deposit limits and session reminders offered by online casinos
• Remember that gambling is entertainment, not a way to make money
• Talk to someone you trust about your gambling habits

Recognizing problem gambling early can make all the difference. Watch for these warning signs in yourself or someone you care about:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
• Lying to friends or family about how much you gamble
• Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when trying to cut back
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
• Chasing losses by gambling more after losing money
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Feeling guilty or ashamed about your gambling behaviour
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop or reduce gambling
• Relationship problems caused by gambling habits

Online casino gaming in Canada is restricted to adults who have reached the legal age of majority in their province or territory. This age is 18 in most provinces and 19 in others, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. Licensed operators verify your age during registration to protect minors from gambling risks. Never share your account information with anyone under the legal age, and keep your login credentials secure to prevent unauthorized access.

If you need a break from gambling, self-exclusion programs give you control. Most licensed online casinos offer voluntary account blocking options that prevent you from accessing your account for a set period. You can choose temporary exclusions lasting days, weeks, or months, or opt for permanent closure. During this time, the casino will not send you promotional materials or allow you to reopen your account. Many provinces also offer centralized self-exclusion registries that block access to multiple gambling sites at once. These tools exist to support your recovery, and using them is a sign of strength, not weakness.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. Canada offers multiple resources providing confidential support, counselling, and treatment:

• Gamblers Anonymous Canada: Free peer support groups across the country where you can share experiences and receive encouragement from others in recovery
• Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario (PGIO): Research-based resources, educational materials, and information about treatment options in Ontario
• ConnexOntario: 24/7 helpline (1-866-531-2600) connecting Ontario residents to addiction services, including problem gambling support
• Responsible Gambling Council: National organization offering self-assessment tools, educational resources, and links to provincial support services
• Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction: Information and resources about gambling addiction alongside other addictive behaviours
• Provincial Health Services: Each province offers dedicated gambling help lines and treatment programs through their health authorities

Reaching out for help is the first step toward recovery. These organizations provide judgment-free support tailored to your needs.