Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to participate in online betting, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Set realistic expectations: the odds always favor the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never use betting as a way to make quick money or recover losses.
Age Verification
Online betting in Canada is restricted to individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the legal age in your province or territory, whichever is higher).
clmcanada.org is committed to preventing underage gambling. We verify the age of all users before allowing access to betting services. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to use this website.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Review the following checklist. If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to bet to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your betting secret from family or friends
- Loss of control: Unable to stop or cut back on gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Financial strain: Betting with money needed for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund betting activities
- Emotional dependency: Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
- Increasing bets: Needing to bet more money to feel the same excitement
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling irritable, anxious, or restless when not gambling
- Relationship problems: Conflicts with family or friends about your gambling habits
If you've checked any of these boxes, it may be time to reach out for support.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most responsible operators offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling. These tools include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose during a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cooling-Off Period: Temporarily suspend your account for a set duration (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a longer period (months or years). This is a binding commitment to stop gambling
Check with your betting provider to see which tools are available. Using these features is a proactive step toward responsible gaming.
Support Organizations in Canada & Internationally
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are reputable organizations that provide confidential support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides resources, counseling, and support for problem gambling in Ontario and across Canada - Gambling Awareness & Treatment Services
Available through provincial health services in most Canadian provinces. Contact your local health authority for referrals.
International Resources
- United Kingdom
GamCare - www.gamcare.org.uk
GamStop - www.gamstop.co.uk (National Self-Exclusion Scheme) - Australia
Gambling Help Online - www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - United States
National Council on Problem Gambling - www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
All support services listed above are confidential and free to use.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Seeking help for problem gambling is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're concerned about yourself or someone else, professional support is available and can make a real difference.
Don't wait. If gambling is affecting your mental health, finances, relationships, or quality of life, contact a support organization immediately. Counselors are trained to help and ready to listen without judgment.
Remember: Recovery is possible, and you are not alone.