Responsible Gaming

Introduction

Sports betting should be enjoyed as entertainment only. It is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always bet within your means and never wager more than you can afford to lose. Remember: the odds always favour the sportsbook in the long run.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal age of majority in your province) to participate in sports betting in Canada. If you are under the legal age, please do not use sports betting sites. Gambling at an underage age can lead to serious consequences and harm.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time or money spent betting
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, relieve stress, or deal with negative emotions
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling activities
• Neglecting work, school, family, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm related to gambling losses

Self-Help Tools

Most responsible sportsbooks offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose within a specific time period
• Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum stake size per bet
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been betting and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting sites to take a break from gambling
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide to stop betting

Use these tools proactively to manage your betting behaviour and maintain healthy gambling habits.

Support Organizations in Canada

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact one of these organizations:

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
  A leading Canadian organization providing research, education, and support for problem gambling.
• Gamblers Anonymous – Free peer support meetings available across Canada for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

International Resources

• GamCare (United Kingdom) – www.gamcare.org.uk
  Confidential counselling and support for problem gambling.
• GamStop (United Kingdom) – www.gamstop.co.uk
  Self-exclusion scheme covering UK-regulated gambling operators.
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free counselling and information for Australians affected by problem gambling.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – www.ncpgambling.org
  Crisis helpline and resources for problem gambling.

Crisis Support

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please reach out immediately:

• Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566 (available 24/7)
• Crisis Text Line Canada: Text HOME to 741741
• Local Emergency Services: Call 911

Take Action Today

If you have a problem with gambling, help is available and recovery is possible. Do not hesitate to reach out to one of the organizations listed above. Speaking with a counsellor, trusted friend, or family member is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone.

Protect yourself and your loved ones by gambling responsibly and seeking help when needed.