Gamble Responsibly

Gambling should be a form of entertainment rather than a way to make money. Here’s a short guide on gambling responsibly for Canadian players, including recognizing problem gambling habits, maintaining gambling as a fun activity, and knowing where to seek help if gambling becomes a problem.

Understanding and Recognizing Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can manifest in many forms and is often subtle at first. Here are some common signs that gambling is becoming a problem:

• Spending more money or time on gambling than intended.
• Lying about gambling habits or hiding them from others.
• Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, or depression.
• Feeling the need to bet more money more frequently.
• Restlessness or irritability when trying to stop gambling.
• Repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling.
• Jeopardizing or losing significant relationships, jobs, or educational or career opportunities because of gambling.

Tips and Advice for Keeping Gambling Fun

To keep gambling a safe and enjoyable activity, consider these tips:

• Set Time and Money Limits: Decide how much money and time you are willing to spend before you start gambling, and stick to these limits.
• Don’t Chase Losses: Chasing losses can lead to bigger losses. Accept them as part of the game and move on.
• Take Frequent Breaks: Regular breaks help you make better gambling decisions.
• Balance Gambling with Other Activities: Make sure that gambling isn’t your only form of entertainment. Engage in other activities to maintain a balanced lifestyle.
• Understand the Odds: Knowing the odds of the games you play helps you have realistic expectations of winning and losing.

Organizations in Canada and the US Offering Help for Gambling Problems

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council (RGC)
  • Website: rgcouncil.ca
  • Phone: 416-499-9800
  • The RGC is dedicated to the prevention of problem gambling in Canada. It offers resources and tools to help gamblers understand the risks, provides self-assessment tools, and offers strategies for gambling responsibly.
• Gamblers Anonymous Canada
  • Website: gamblersanonymous.org/ga/addresses
  • Phone: Use website to find local phone numbers
  • A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope to solve their common problem and help others recover from gambling addiction.
• Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario
  • Website: problemgambling.ca
  • Phone: 1-866-531-2600
  • Provides a wealth of resources aimed at helping individuals manage gambling habits, including self-help tools and a helpline for immediate support.

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling
  • Website: ncpgambling.org
  • Phone: 1-800-522-4700
  • Offers a range of services to assist problem gamblers and their families by providing education, advocacy, and a help line.
• Gamblers Anonymous USA
  • Website: gamblersanonymous.org
  • Phone: Use the website to find local hotline numbers
  • Similar to its Canadian counterpart, this organization provides support and resources for recovering from gambling addiction.

By keeping these points in mind and knowing where to get help, Canadian players can enjoy gambling in a safer and more responsible manner.