Our Approach to Responsible Gambling
We take responsible gambling seriously and only consider licensed casinos and sportsbooks for our lists. A licensed platform follows strict security and fairness standards, and we always make sure that the site we evaluate operates under a recognized regulatory body.
Responsible gambling tools, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion, must be available and easily accessible for players at all times. We also look at transparency and fairness, ensuring that games use verified Random Number Generators (RNGs) and provide straightforward Return-to-Player (RTP) information.
As part of our commitment to responsible gambling, we prioritize platforms that offer support resources for players who may need help. Easy access to professional assistance and problem gambling support services shows a commitment to player well-being, and we reward platforms that offer these services with higher rankings.
How to Identify Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing the signs of problem gambling is the first step toward seeking help. Common indicators include:
- Financial Signs – Borrowing money to fund gambling starts becoming a habit, while covering basic expenses, like rent and bills, becomes a struggle. Many gamblers max out credit cards or take out loans. Selling personal belongings to keep playing is another sign of financial difficulties that accompany problem gambling.
- Behavioural Signs – A gambling addiction changes daily routines and priorities, where responsibilities at work and home are neglected. Gamblers often lose track of time, playing for much longer than intended. They feel restless or irritable when not playing, and over time, they take bigger risks to maintain excitement.
- Social Signs – Many withdraw from family and friends, often avoiding social interactions to spend more time gambling. They become defensive when confronted and refuse to discuss their gambling habits. They neglect loved ones in favour of playing and betting, and relationships suffer.
- Psychological Signs – Gamblers can become subject to frequent mood swings, with extreme highs after wins and deep lows after losses. Many gamblers struggle to concentrate at work. Sleeping disorders, anxiety, or even depression set in as losses accumulate and financial problems worsen. Irritability and aggression increase. In severe cases, feelings of hopelessness lead to suicidal thoughts.
If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, please seek help promptly.
How to Get Help in Canada
Canada offers a variety of resources for individuals seeking assistance with problem gambling. Support is available both nationally and across various provinces.
National Organizations
Canada offers several national organizations dedicated to responsible gambling and addiction support, which provide resources and direct assistance to individuals struggling with these issues. They promote safer gambling habits and support those in need through helplines and educational programs.
Responsible Gambling Council (RGC)
The RGC is a Canadian non-profit organization that has been addressing problem gambling for over 40 years. It provides tools and educational programs to help individuals recognize risky gambling behaviour and make informed decisions.
RGC helps by developing research-backed prevention programs and collaborates with gambling operators and regulators to implement safer gambling measures.
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA)
The CCSA works with healthcare providers across Canada to improve access to treatment and prevention programs. It also conducts research and develops public policies to promote healthier communities.
- Website: https://www.ccsa.ca/
- Phone: +1 (613) 235-4048
- Address: 75 Albert Street, Suite 500, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5E7 Canada
The CCSA helps by funding research on gambling addiction, mental health, and substance abuse. The organization also publishes resources and best practices to assist those affected by gambling addiction.
Provincial Organizations
Each province in Canada provides specialized support services to help residents struggling with problem gambling. These programs offer confidential helplines, self-exclusion options, educational resources, and access to treatment programs.
Ontario
ConnexOntario
ConnexOntario is a free helpline funded by the Ontario government that provides information and support for Canadians struggling with gambling, alcohol, drug use, or mental health challenges.
PlaySmart (OLG)
As part of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) initiative to promote responsible gambling, PlaySmart provides educational resources like self-assessment quizzes and information on gambling odds to help players make informed choices.
PlaySmart helps gamblers stay in control by offering practical tools like budgeting guides, time-management strategies, and access to self-exclusion programs.
British Columbia
GameSense is a responsible gambling program developed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). It focuses on educating players about safe gambling practices by providing information on how games work, the risks involved, and tools to help players manage their gambling habits.
- Website: https://www.gamesense.com/
- Gambling Support Line (BC): 1-888-795-6111
- Speak to a GameSense Advisor: 1-866-815-0222 (Press 3)
- Customer Support Centre Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to midnight (Pacific Time)
Players can reach out to phone support and also visit GameSense Info Centres located at gambling facilities across British Columbia.
Alberta
Alberta Health Services (AHS) provides a 24/7 confidential helpline for individuals struggling with addiction, including problem gambling. The service offers immediate support, information on responsible gambling, and referrals to professional treatment programs within the province.
In addition to phone support, AHS helps individuals find local counselling and treatment services.
Quebec
Loto-Québec’s Jeu: Aide et Référence
Loto-Québec provides a confidential helpline with professional counsellors who can offer immediate guidance or referrals to gambling treatment programs. Canadians in Quebec who are concerned about their gambling habits can reach out 24/7, free of charge.
Those seeking help with problem gambling can also use AideJeu at https://aidejeu.ca/, which also provides bilingual service 24/7 for Québécois.
Manitoba
Manitoba Addictions Helpline
The Manitoba Addictions Helpline is known for its reliable and confidential support. It facilitates a wide network of helpline partners who provide relief to Manitobans suffering from addiction and gambling-related problems.
This helpline serves as a central resource for Canadians in the province seeking available treatment programs.
Nova Scotia
The Responsible Gambling Council of Nova Scotia promotes responsible gambling across the province with various prevention programs, including the Annual Nova Scotia Responsible Gambling Week.
The organization provides education and support for those affected by problem gambling.
Additional Resources in Nova Scotia:
Practice Responsible Gambling
Your gaming activity should remain enjoyable and not negatively impact your financial stability, mental health, or relationships. Here are some key guidelines to help maintain control:
- Set a budget – Determine how much money you can afford to lose and stick to it.
- Set a time limit – Allocate a fixed amount of time for gambling to avoid spending excessive hours playing.
- Avoid chasing losses – Accept losses as part of the game and never try to win back lost money by placing bigger bets.
- Understand the game – Make informed decisions by learning the rules, odds, and strategies before betting or playing.
- Play for fun, not profit – Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money.
- Understand your emotions – Emotional betting leads to poor decisions. Therefore, avoid gambling when feeling stressed or anxious.
- Watch for warning signs – Be aware of changes in behaviour or mood shifts that indicate problem gambling.
By following these responsible gambling practices, you can enjoy online gaming safely and the potential risk will remain minimal.
