Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Clandessdiner.org, we believe that gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting sites should be used responsibly and within your means. If you find yourself relying on gambling as income or using it to cope with stress or other issues, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
In Canada, you must be 18 years of age or older (or the legal gambling age in your province) to use betting sites and participate in gambling activities. Provincial regulations may vary—please verify the legal age in your jurisdiction:
- Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec: 18 years old
- British Columbia, Saskatchewan: 19 years old
- Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island: 19 years old
All licensed betting sites are required to verify your age before allowing account creation.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of these apply to you? If so, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Gambling longer or with larger amounts than intended
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or to pay off gambling debts
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Lying about the extent of your gambling activities
If you recognize any of these signs, please reach out to a support organization or use the self-help tools available to you.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during gaming sessions to help you stay aware of time spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a betting site for a set period, preventing access to your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide to stop gambling
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break before reopening an excluded account
We encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling habits are becoming problematic.
Support Organizations in Canada & Internationally
Canadian Resources
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Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
A leading Canadian organization providing evidence-based resources, research, and support for problem gambling. -
Gambling Help Online
Confidential online counselling and support services for Canadians struggling with gambling. -
Provincial Problem Gambling Services
Most Canadian provinces offer free counselling services. Contact your provincial health authority or search for "problem gambling help [your province]."
International Resources
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National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) - Free, confidential, 24/7 helpline -
GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support and treatment services for problem gamblers. -
GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling operators. -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Confidential counselling and information for problem gamblers and their families.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out—support is available and recovery is possible.
Contact the Responsible Gambling Council today: www.responsiblegambling.org
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to stop.