Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Betting Canada, we believe that online gaming and sports betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gambling always carries risk, and the house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your province) to participate in any form of gambling or sports betting in Canada. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services.
Parents and Guardians: Help protect young people by discussing the risks of gambling and monitoring their online activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses (gambling more to recover money lost)
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or cope with stress
- Lying about the extent of gambling activities
- Risking important relationships, education, or career opportunities
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online betting platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set maximum amounts you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose over a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gaming sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set duration
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gambling activities.
Get Help: Canadian & International Support Organizations
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org — Ontario-based resource for gambling problem prevention and treatment information
- Gamblers Anonymous Canada — Free peer support meetings across Canada for people struggling with gambling addiction
- Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario (PGIO) — Provides treatment and support services for problem gambling
- Provincial Helplines: Each province has specific gambling support services; contact your local health authority for resources
United Kingdom
- GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk — Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families
- GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org — Free helpline and referral service (1-800-GAMBLER)
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Counselling and support services for Australian residents
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — German centre for health education offering gambling addiction resources
No matter where you are, help is available. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of the organizations listed above. These services are confidential, professional, and often free.
Take action today:
- Call a gambling helpline in your region
- Visit a support organization's website for resources
- Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
- Use self-exclusion tools on your betting accounts
- Seek professional counselling or therapy
Recovery is possible. You are not alone.
This page is provided for informational purposes. Betting Canada is committed to responsible gaming. If you experience problem gambling, please seek professional help immediately from one of the organizations listed above.