A guide to responsible gambling

The statistics of problem gambling

Online gambling in Canada has experienced significant growth in recent years. As noted by Made in CA, there are approximately 19.3 million active online gamblers as of 2024. The industry has made a lot of money that helps fund government programs. However, this growth has also led to worries about problem gambling.

Approximately 2% of Canadians aged 15 or older are identified as having a gambling problem. Even for those without an addiction, online gambling is still widespread - 63% of men and 57% of women spend money on gambling monthly.

How to stay safe when gambling online

Watching for the signs of gambling addiction and sticking to responsible online gambling habits is essential for an enjoyable online casino experience. Fortunately, there are various strategies you can employ. From the use of available tools to playing at licenced casinos, here’s how to keep you – and your bankroll – safe.

• Play at licenced casinos: Always choose casinos regulated by reputable authorities like Malta Gaming Authority, Kahnawake Gaming Commission or the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Licencing means these platforms adhere to fair gameplay and secure transactions, and are safe and legal to play at.

• Set personal limits: Create betting and deposit limits to manage your spending. As part of its responsible gambling policy, most casinos offer tools to help control your bankroll during gaming sessions, giving you more control over your time and money.

• Take regular breaks: Frequent breaks prevent impulsive decisions and keep your mind fresh. You can keep a better perspective by regularly stepping away from the screen.

• Use self-exclusion tools: If at any time gambling feels overwhelming, use self-exclusion tools. These restrict access to your account for set periods – key for regaining control and reassessing your habits.

• Find low-bet-limit games: Choosing low-bet-limit games is a good way to extend your playtime without significant financial risk. This approach lets you enjoy the experience longer and prevents any potential losses.

Responsible gambling laws and regulations

While strict, Canadian laws aim to protect players from gambling-related harm. For example, federal age restrictions prevent people under 18 or 19 (depending on the province) from playing at online gambling sites. Additionally, certain provinces have specific measures in place for responsible gambling. Ontario, for example, uses self-exclusion programs and public awareness campaigns to better combat addiction. The AGCO enforces these rules to ensure operators promote responsible play.

Want to know more about responsible gambling in Canada? Visit the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction and the Responsible Gambling Council for more information.

What are the signs of problem gambling?

From relationships to your finances, problem gambling can negatively impact every aspect of your life. It’s important to recognize when gambling becomes less about enjoyment and more about stress or necessity.

Identifying the signs early can empower you to seek help and protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Hiding the amount of time or money spent gambling.
• Trying to win back losses repeatedly, regardless of the risk.
• Thinking about gambling constantly, even during important moments.
• Feeling the urge to gamble just to feel better or escape stress.
• Using gambling as a coping mechanism for daily challenges.
• Engaging in dishonesty or theft to fund gambling activities.
• Placing gambling above meaningful relationships or responsibilities.
• Experiencing anxiety or frustration when unable to gamble.
• Neglecting commitments due to a focus on gambling.
• Using gambling to self-soothe negative emotions or run away from problems.

What makes gambling addictive?

Gambling becomes addictive due to its stimulation of the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine and creating a pleasant feeling. It's also a form of reinforcement that can lead to compulsive behaviour.

Studies indicate that, in Canada, approximately 1% to 3% of adults experience moderate-to-severe gambling problems.

What to do if a loved one has a problem with gambling

If someone you care about struggles with gambling, know you’re not alone. Support is always available. Charities and online gambling addiction programs offer guidance to help you both.

1. Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for open conversation. Your support can be imperative to address the gambling problem.

2. Encourage professional help: Recommend a responsible gambling program or counsellor experienced in how to stop gambling addiction.

3. Set clear boundaries: Protect your well-being by putting financial and emotional limits in place. Boundaries help both of you manage the situation more effectively.

4. Stay informed: Educate yourself about gambling addiction help and available resources. A better understanding of the issue allows you to offer informed, compassionate support.

5. Support self-exclusion: Assist in accessing tools like self-exclusion programs. These services aid in recovery by blocking access to gambling platforms.

What to do if you have a problem

Are you struggling with gambling? While we’d always recommend getting gambling addiction support, there are effective ways to regain control:

• Set reality checks to remind yourself of the time spent playing.

• Deposit limits can help manage your spending.

• Consider cooling off periods to regain your composure.

• Self-exclusion tools are available to restrict access and support your recovery.