Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Seniors in BC, we believe that online casino gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only. Gaming is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favor the house, and losses are a normal part of gambling. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and set strict limits before you play.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in online gaming in British Columbia and across Canada. It is your responsibility to verify your age before registering with any gaming platform. Gaming is intended for adults only.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time or money spent
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions
- Increasing the amount of money or time spent gambling to feel the same excitement
- Difficulty controlling, reducing, or stopping gambling
- Neglecting family, work, school, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems or conflicts due to gambling habits
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or restless when unable to gamble
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you are willing to lose over a specified period
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during gaming sessions to help you keep track of time and money spent
- Time Limits: Set restrictions on how long you can play during a single session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms
- Account Breaks: Take a mandatory break from gaming for a set period
Always use these tools responsibly and discuss them with support services if you need additional help.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these reputable Canadian organizations:
Primary Canadian Resources:
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Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
A leading authority on responsible gambling in Canada offering research, education, and support resources. -
BC Responsible Gambling Program
Part of the Province of British Columbia's commitment to harm reduction. Contact your local health authority for resources and counseling services. -
Gamblers Anonymous
A peer-support fellowship with chapters across Canada offering free meetings and mutual support for people affected by problem gambling. -
National Problem Gambling Services Directory
Access provincial and territorial gambling helplines through the Responsible Gambling Council's network.
International Support (if applicable):
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GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (United Kingdom Self-Exclusion)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk -
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au -
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
You are not alone. Problem gambling is a recognized condition, and professional help is available and effective. If you are struggling with gambling habits, please take the following steps:
- Recognize the warning signs in yourself or a loved one
- Reach out to one of the support organizations listed above
- Speak with a counselor, therapist, or trusted family member
- Use self-exclusion tools and deposit limits immediately
- Seek professional treatment if needed
Remember: Recovery is possible, and support services are confidential and judgment-free. Contact a helpline today if you need assistance.