Responsible Play / Responsible Gambling

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a budget and time limit in advance; stop when you reach either limit.
• Never chase losses. Losses are part of gambling-style entertainment.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing when stressed, tired, or under the influence.
• Keep play separate from essentials (rent, food, bills) and avoid borrowing to play.
• Consider device/app timers and financial controls (spend limits, card blocks).

Optional limits & self-exclusion

If you use gambling products, consider tools such as deposit/loss limits, time-outs, reality checks, or self-exclusion offered by regulated operators in your province/territory. Third-party blocking tools (e.g., gambling-site blockers) may also help.

Warning signs

• Spending more time or money than planned, or hiding play from others
• Chasing losses, borrowing money, or selling items to fund play
• Neglecting work, school, relationships, sleep, or health
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not playing

Get support in Canada

• ConnexOntario (ON): free, confidential support and treatment info. connexontario.ca
• Gambling Support BC: gamblingsupportbc.ca
• Aide Jeu (QC): aidejeu.ca
• Alberta Health Services: albertahealthservices.ca
• Crisis: Call/text 988 in Canada for suicide crisis support, or call 911 for immediate danger.