Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Gambling should always be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any entertainment expense, you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose. If you find yourself relying on gambling for income or using it to escape problems, it may be time to seek help.

Age Verification

All users must be at least 18 years of age or older (or the legal gambling age in your province) to access gambling services in Canada. By using any gambling platform, you confirm that you meet this age requirement. Gambling while underage is illegal and can have serious consequences.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it may indicate a gambling problem:

• Chasing Losses: Gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding Gambling: Keeping your gambling activity secret from family or friends
• Loss of Control: Unable to stop gambling or stick to limits you've set
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
• Financial Strain: Using borrowed money or going into debt to gamble
• Mood Changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
• Escalating Bets: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
• Using Gambling to Escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotions

Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features

Most responsible gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose in a given timeframe
• Betting Limits: Cap the size of individual bets
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long and how much you've been playing
• Session Limits: Set automatic breaks or session end times
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling platforms for a set period

We encourage you to use these tools proactively, even if you don't currently believe you have a problem.

Support & Help Resources in Canada

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:

Canadian Resources

• Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Canada's leading organization dedicated to preventing problem gambling
• Gamblers Anonymous Canada
  A peer-support fellowship offering meetings across Canada
• Provincial Problem Gambling Services
  Many Canadian provinces offer free, confidential counselling and treatment services

International Resources

• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

If You Need Help

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available. If you're struggling with gambling:

• Reach out to one of the organizations listed above
• Speak with a trusted family member or friend
• Contact your healthcare provider or a mental health professional
• Use self-exclusion tools immediately to stop access to gambling platforms

You are not alone. Help is available right now.

This responsible gaming information is provided for educational purposes. albertametisregion1.com is committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices. For the most current resources and support options specific to your province, please consult the Responsible Gambling Council or your provincial health authority.