Understanding Responsible Gambling and What it Means to Play It Safe

For most players, gambling is a fun activity that provides some light entertainment and a few thrills. There is a relatively small percentage of players, however, for which the good times can turn bad. For these vulnerable players, what starts out as an enjoyable pastime can quickly spiral into financial and emotional turmoil.

This resource aims to shed light on the facts about responsible gambling. We’ll talk about gambling addiction, its warning signs, and where to find help in Canada if you or someone you care about needs support.

What is Responsible Gambling and Why Does It Matter?

Responsible gambling is a way to safely manage your time and money when playing games of risk, that aims to prevent the activity from becoming dangerous to your health. The good news is that by having the knowledge and tools at hand to identify the risks and proactively take steps to mitigate them, adequately protecting yourself from problem gambling can be fairly straightforward.

Problem Gambling in Canada by the numbers

According to a study conducted in 2022 by Statistics Canada, people from lower-income families are less likely to gamble than those from higher-income families, but face a higher risk of gambling-related financial problems. This could be due to lower-income households having limited financial resources, which may lead them to view gambling as a way to earn quick money.

The study found that:

  • Around 64.5% of Canadians older than 15 participated in some form of gambling in the past year.
  • 1.6% of Canadians of regular gamblers were at a moderate-to-severe risk of gambling addiction.
  • Only 5% of Canadians who suffer from problem gambling seek out therapy.
  • 83% of Canadians believe it is up to the individual to control their gambling habits.

 

How to Recognize Problem Gambling: Warning Signs

At Maple Casino, we are big proponents for responsible gambling. That’s why you’ll see information on nearly all of our pages with tips on how to play more safely and not spend more than your means.

Gambling addiction is a recognized mental health condition often compared to substance abuse due to its similar impact on the brain’s reward system and compulsive behavior patterns. In some players, this condition is triggered by personality traits like high risk tolerance, and for others it is their upbringing or life experiences that put them at risk.

It’s crucial to remember that each individual is unique, and problem gambling can present itself in many different ways. Some typical warning signs that someone has a gambling problem can include:

  • Spending more than you can afford.
  • Lying about gambling habits.
  • Feeling anxious or guilty about gambling.
  • Increasing bets to try to recover lost money (known as chasing losses).
  • Neglecting responsibilities like work, school, or family obligations to gamble.
  • Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling.
  • Relationship strain with loved ones over gambling behavior.
  • Constantly thinking or talking about gambling activities.
  • Gambling with money intended for essentials, like bills or groceries.
  • Repeatedly failing to cut back or quit gambling despite wanting to.
  • Feeling irritable or restless when unable to gamble.
  • Relying on gambling as a way to cope with stress or emotional problems.

 

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Remember, gambling addiction can affect anyone. There’s no reason to be ashamed if you think you or a loved one has a problem. It’s completely okay to ask for help!
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Types of Problem Gamblers and How they Behave

Gambling addiction is characterized by a compulsive urge to gamble, even when it causes financial hardships and strains personal relationships. Our modern digital age offers countless ways to gamble both online and offline, making it all the more important for players to recognize the potential risks and harms associated with games of risk and chance. Forms of gambling that can be habit-forming include playing casino games, betting on sports, or even buying lottery tickets. Problem gamblers are not only defined by the types of games they are attracted to playing, but also by how they manage their spending habits.

These are two main categories of gamblers with different habits and ways of engaging in risky play:

The compulsive gambler

Compulsive gamblers become hooked on the high associated with playing.

They often spiral out of control trying to chase that feeling, leading to potentially significant financial losses. Gambling also pervades their thoughts, making it an incredibly difficult habit to break.

The binge gambler

Binge gamblers may not spend much time gambling or even thinking about it.

However, when they do visit a casino or play online, they tend to spend large sums of money at once. While they may have control over how often they gamble, they usually struggle to gamble without overspending.

Play It Safe: Four Essential Tips to Gamble Responsibly

Practicing responsible gambling, even for those without a gambling problem, is about maintaining discipline. By following a few simple rules, most players can enjoy gambling without it negatively affect their lives.

I always remind myself that gambling is just a game—it’s okay to walk away!

 

Set a budget and stick to it

Master the art of bankroll management for smarter gambling habits.

Locking of casino account

You can request the casino to lock your account for a set period. It will stay locked until the specified time ends.

Take regular breaks

Refresh your mind between gaming sessions for better focus. During this time, avoid all casino-related activities and find other ways to relax and have fun.

Set A realistic budget

Review your spending habits regularly, to see if you are sticking to your budget and adjust it if necessary.

Avoid overspending

Resist the urge to chase losses when you're on a losing streak and stick to your budget.

Set deposit limits

To achieve this, simply get in touch with the casino. You can set daily, weekly or even monthly deposit limits. The limit is effective within 24 hours.

Canadian Gambling Resources, Tools, And Features for Safer Play

Many reputable online casinos in Canada offer resources and tools to promote responsible gambling and create a safer playing environment. These might include guidelines for playing responsibly and contact lists for organizations that provide support for problem gamblers.

Additionally, some casinos provide responsible gambling tools to help players avoid overspending. These tools can include self-imposed limits on deposits or losses, or even self-exclusion options that ban players from the casino entirely.

Here’s a breakdown of responsible gambling tools which vary from one casino to the next:

Responsible Gambling ToolHow does it Help?Level of RestrictionEase of Reversal
1 Deposit limits Allow players to set a maximum amount they can deposit into their gambling account over a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly). This makes it easier to budget and avoid overspending. Low Easy to adjust
2 Loss limits Restrict how much money a player can lose over a certain timeframe. Once the limit is reached, the player cannot place further bets until the period resets. Low to moderate Easy to adjust
3 Wagering limits These limits cap the total amount a player can bet over a specified period, regardless of wins or losses. Low to moderate Easy to adjust
4 Time limits Players can set restrictions on the amount of time they spend gambling in a single session or over a day to help maintain a balanced lifestyle. Moderate Easy to adjust
5 Session limits Players can limit the length of a single gambling session. Once the session ends, the player is logged out automatically. Moderate Easy to adjust
6 Autoplay limits Restrictions on the use of Autoplay features in slot games, giving players more control over each spin and reducing impulsive betting. Low Usually permanent
7 Account activity reports Detailed reports of a player's gambling history, including deposits, withdrawals, and bets placed, allow for transparent and informed decision-making. Informational N/A
8 Budget tracking Some casino sites offer features to track spending and provide insights into gambling habits, helping players monitor their finances more effectively. Informational N/A
9 Reality checks This feature sends reminders or pop-up notifications to players at regular intervals, informing them how long they've been gambling and how much they've spent or won/lost during the session. Low Easy to enable/disable
10 Cooling-off period This tool enables players to temporarily suspend their gambling account for a short duration (e.g., 24 hours, a week, or a month). It is a way to take a break and reassess gambling habits. Moderate Temporary, auto-resumes
11 Parental controls Tools that prevent underage individuals from accessing gambling sites on shared devices, often through password protection or filtering software. Moderate to high Requires admin intervention
12 Self-exclusion A more permanent option, self-exclusion allows players to ban themselves from accessing gambling sites or venues for a longer duration, such as six months, a year, or even indefinitely. Very high Difficult, time-bound

Comparing Responsible Gambling Tools at Top Canadian Casinos

Safe Online Casino

Responsible Gambling Tools

Extra Safety Measures

Trust Rating

Cashed-Logo-Small-Components

Loss limits, deposit limits, self-exclusion, time limits

Licensed by PAGCOR with SSL encryption ensuring secure player data transactions.

9/10

1Red Cas

Deposit limits, loss limits, self-exclusion

Regulated by Curaçao eGaming with SSL encryption for robust security.

8.5/10

Ninlay2

Loss limits, deposit limits, self-exclusion

Certified by Curaçao eGaming, featuring SSL encryption to protect user information.

8/10

golden star small component

Deposit limits, self-exclusion, time limits

Licensed by the MGA, verified by eCOGRA, and safeguarded with SSL encryption.

7.5/10

How to set a deposit limit on your casino account

Deposit limits are one of the easiest ways to manage spending, and play responsibly online. Many of the safest and most trustworthy online casinos in Canada offer this empowering responsible gambling tool.

Here’s how to set a deposit limit at Cashed Casino, our top-rated safest casino we recommend.

 

Step 1 – Log in

Access your Cashed Casino account using your email and password.

Step 2 – Go to responsible gambling

Find the Responsible Gambling section in the account settings or footer menu.

Step 3 – Choose deposit limits

Select the Deposit Limits option to proceed.

Step 4 – Set your limit

Enter your preferred daily, weekly, or monthly limit and confirm.

Step - Enjoy your limits

Your deposit limits with be set accordingly.

Step 6 – You’re all set

Now you can play responsibly, on your own terms.

Take Control: Where to Seek Help for Problem Gambling in Canada

In Canada, there are numerous means of support for players who may be experiencing gambling-related problems. These include educational resources as well as helplines for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Also available are in-person support groups or meetings that players can attend where they can talk to trained professionals and share their experiences with other problem gamblers.

Here are some organizations and initiatives aimed at helping problem gamblers:

Responsible Gaming Council (RGC)

The Responsible Gaming Council offers education and tools to help players address gambling-related issues. Their resources include:

  • Self-exclusion programs
  • Helplines for immediate assistance
  • Guides on safer gambling, risk factors, and young adults
  • A self-assessment quiz to evaluate gambling habits
  • Resources tailored for both individuals and regulators

 

Canadian Partnership for Responsible Gambling

This organization promotes responsible gambling practices and provides online tools and resources to help players:

  • Recognize signs of problem gambling
  • Take steps to manage gambling habits
  • Access support for a healthier relationship with gambling

 

Gamblers Anonymous Canada

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offers peer support through a structured 12-step program. Key features include:

  • In-person and virtual meetings across Canada
  • A hotline for immediate assistance
  • A supportive community for individuals looking to overcome gambling issues

 

Problem Gambling Guide

A comprehensive resource for understanding and tackling problem gambling. It offers:

  • Tips on setting limits and managing finances
  • Signs and symptoms of problem gambling
  • Links to local support groups and treatment centers

 

Gambling Therapy App

The Gambling Therapy App is a digital resource offering practical tools and information for managing gambling habits. Download the app to access support at your convenience. Features include:

  • Self-assessment questionnaires and mindfulness exercises
  • Live support and therapeutic resources
  • Compatibility with iOS and Android devices for on-the-go assistance

 

Gambling support by province: Where to get help near you

If you or someone you know is experiencing a gambling problem in Canada, many provincial resources offer support and assistance. Below is a breakdown of available services across the country:

Province 

Resource

Call Now

Ontario

ConnexOntario

1-866-531-2600

Alberta

Alberta Health Services Addictions Helpline

1-866-332-2322

British Columbia

BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program

1-888-795-6111

Manitoba

Manitoba Addictions Helpline

1-855-662-6605

New Brunswick

Gambling Information Line

1-800-461-1234

Newfoundland and Labrador

Problem Gambling Help Line

1-888-899-4357

Northwest Territories

NWT Help Line

1-800-661-0844

Nova Scotia

Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line

1-888-429-8167

Nunavut

Kamatsiaqtut Help Line

1-800-265-3333

Prince Edward Island

Problem Gambling Help Line

1-855-255-4255

Quebec

Gambling: Help and Referral

1-800-461-0140

Saskatchewan

Problem Gambling Helpline

1-800-306-6789

Yukon

Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services

1-866-456-3838

More treatment and recovery options for gambling addiction

Overcoming gambling addiction requires a combination of the right tools, support, and professional guidance. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help individuals regain control of their lives. Whether you’re seeking guidance, tools to regain control, or simply someone to talk to, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Your safety and peace of mind matter to us, and we’re dedicated to ensuring you have the resources you need to prioritize your well-being.

Explore the following options to find what works best for you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

This form of therapy is designed to help you identify and change the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to gambling addiction. Through CBT, players can learn to recognize false assumptions related to gambling, such as irrational beliefs about luck or the potential of a big win.

12-step programs

Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step program modelled on Alcoholics Anonymous, which provides support for individuals struggling with a gambling problem. The program is free to join and provides access to a network of recovering gamblers, who can provide moral support during the recovery process.

Medications

In some cases, medications such as anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs can be used to treat gambling addiction. Talking to a healthcare provide is the best way to explore options.

Inpatient or outpatient treatment

For people with severe gambling addiction, inpatient or outpatient treatment is another possible intervention. These programs offer a safe, supportive environment to detox and receive intensive therapy.

Support groups

Joining a support group for people with gambling problems can provide a sense of community, accountability, and encouragement as they work to overcome their addiction. Through peer support, addicts can share their stories and empathize with one another.

Putting Responsible Gambling Into Action

We would like to reiterate that gambling should be a fun activity and not be a burden on you, your friends, or your family. If you or someone in your life has a problem with addiction, we strongly urge you to seek out the necessary resources to start on the road to recovery.

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