ListCasinoCaWarning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize these behaviors in yourself or someone else, it may be time to seek help:
- Spending more money or time gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
- Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
- Risking important relationships due to gambling
- Feeling guilty or depressed after gambling
Tips for Responsible Gambling
- Set a budget — Only gamble with money you can afford to lose
- Set time limits — Use timers or casino tools to track play time
- Never chase losses — Accept losses as the cost of entertainment
- Don't gamble when emotional — Avoid playing when stressed, depressed, or drunk
- Take regular breaks — Step away from the screen frequently
- Balance with other activities — Gambling shouldn't be your only hobby
Casino Responsible Gambling Tools
All licensed casinos offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly caps
- Loss Limits: Stop playing after reaching a set loss amount
- Session Time Limits: Get alerts or auto-logout after set time
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a short break (24hrs to 30 days)
- Self-Exclusion: Block yourself from the casino for months or years
- Reality Checks: Pop-up reminders showing time played and losses
Canadian Support Resources
| Organization | Phone | Services |
|---|---|---|
| ConnexOntario | 1-866-531-2600 | 24/7 helpline, chat, treatment locator |
| Responsible Gambling Council | 1-888-391-1111 | Information, resources, self-help |
| Gamblers Anonymous | Various local | Support groups across Canada |
| BC Gambling Support | 1-888-795-6111 | British Columbia residents |
| Alberta Helpline | 1-866-332-2322 | Alberta residents |
| Quebec Ligne Aide | 1-800-461-0140 | Quebec residents (French available) |
Self-Exclusion Programs
Voluntarily ban yourself from casinos:
- Ontario: iGaming Ontario self-exclusion covers all regulated sites
- Individual Casinos: Contact customer support to self-exclude
- Land-Based: Visit provincial gaming corporation for local casinos
Protect Minors
Online gambling is only legal for adults 19+ (18+ in AB, MB, QC). Keep login details private and use parental controls to block gambling sites on shared devices.