Gambling Addiction

Online gambling can offer enjoyment and entertainment, but there are also risks involved. We promote responsible gambling by providing information about gambling addiction. This page offers guidance options for those who may be impacted, as well as raising awareness of gambling risks.

Gambling Addiction

For many, gambling and betting is a very enjoyable pastime. And it should stay that way. However, as with many things, gambling has its risks. It can become addictive and have negative consequences for both the player and those around them. Promoting responsible gambling is a must, and something we are committed to doing. Here, we consider the risks of problem gambling and outline ways to help, as well as the support options for any player who is affected.

Why it can be bad

Also known as compulsive gambling or having a gambling disorder, gambling addiction is a serious condition akin to alcohol addiction with regard to its far-reaching ramifications. A serious addiction results in negative consequences for both the player and those close to them. It can have major impacts on the player’s daily life, financial setup, work life, and love life.

Signs of a problem

If someone is suffering from a gambling addiction, there are typically clear signs. These signs can be used by the player themselves to identify that they have an issue, or by those close to the player who may notice changes in their behaviour. Here are some of the signs to keep an eye out for if you suspect a gambling problem:

Lack of control

the player is unable to stop or limit gambling activities despite the negative side effects that are occurring.

Preoccupation

the player is typically always thinking about gambling and when the next gambling session can take place. It can also revolve around rumination about previous sessions.

Chasing losses

the player tries to recover money from a previous loss and keeps on gambling even when bigger losses occur.

Neglect of responsibilities

the player stops paying close attention to professional or personal responsibilities because of gambling. This can result in relationship breakdown or the loss of a job due to undue absences.

Financial issues

the player succumbs to financial difficulties, borrows money or even starts to perform some illegal activities to fund their gambling addiction.

Emotional distress

the player becomes irritable, restless or anxious when unable to gamble. This becomes more noticeable when they reduce or try to quit gambling.

Subterfuge

the player will hide their gambling lifestyle and potentially not divulge how much they win or lose, hiding how much money has been lost from loved ones.

All of these are signs that the gambling addiction is in full swing. For anyone outside the gambling world, if someone you know shows any of these signs, then they need help.

How to avoid becoming addicted

Of course, there are some pre-emptive steps players can take to ensure they don’t become addicted in the first place. And this is where responsible gambling tools come in very handy. There are also some simple rules to implement regarding play style and budgeting that players can give themselves prior to getting started. These include setting a budget, never spending over what you can afford to lose, and not chasing losses. Responsible gambling tools can really help to achieve some of these goals.

Using responsible gambling tools

There are a variety of responsible gambling tools available at online casinos in Canada. These are in place to help players put a curb or limits on their gambling right from the outset. Even if a player thinks they can handle the pressures of gambling, it’s a good idea to set up some of these tools just in case.

Time limits

these can be implemented to restrict the length of play. Hours of playing can more easily lead to addiction and problem gambling.

Cooling-off period

similar to self-exclusion, this is a shorter time period where the player’s account is blocked from being accessed. It’s a good tool to have for players who may be teetering on the edge of addiction.

Deposit/loss limits

all players should set these up during the account creation process. Set a deposit limit to prevent overspending. Loss limits help players keep track of how much they are losing over time.

Self-exclusion

if gambling becomes overwhelming, this is an option to restrict and prevent play across many online casinos. It can be done for varying periods from 6 months, 1 year or even 5 years. Using this option means being unable to access any form of gambling on that platform, the account cannot be reinstated until after the self-exclusion period is up, and no adverts will be sent to the player.

Who can help

Once you’ve identified that there’s an issue, there are people who can step in to help. There are many different organisations that are poised to offer support, guidance and resources for those who are affected by gambling addiction. If a player needs help, then we recommend reaching out to one of these organisations for assistance and support.

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

This is a fellowship that brings groups of individuals who have suffered gambling addiction together to help them overcome it. Support is provided through regular meetings where people share experiences, help and hope. It’s a 12-step program and is a great tool for getting onto the path of recovery.

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)

The NCPG is an organisation committed to dealing with the issues surrounding gambling addiction. It offers a wealth of information, resources and support for those who are struggling. The NCPG also pushes for responsible gambling practices and promotes addiction awareness and prevention.

GamCare

This UK-based organisation offers a range of services to gambling addicts. There’s a helpline, online counselling, various treatment options, and resources for those looking for more information on responsible gambling. GamCare collaborates with gambling operators, promoting safe gambling practices and awareness around the risks of gambling.

Gambling Therapy

This international service offers online counselling and support for addicts. Its services include a helpline, forums, self-help tools, live chat and more. Available in a wide array of languages, it’s designed to reach as many people as possible.

Looking for help is already half the battle won. Gambling addiction doesn’t have to be something that you face alone. Get in touch with any of these organisations if you or someone you know needs help to recover from gambling addiction.

Kaylee Nancarrow

For those of you that don’t know me yet, my name is Kaylee Nancarrow and I have been playing poker since the age of 9. I was born in 1995 in a small town near Cape Town, South Africa and today, I am somewhat of a self-proclaimed expert when it comes to online gambling. My passion for gambling began at an early age, watching my father play late night poker.

Since then, I’ve taken my game to the next level and become an online casino review expert. Part of my job that I love the most, is that I get to explore the wonders of the online casino world. You never know what you’re going to come across, unless you read my reviews!

Best Casinos

Seven Casino 450% up to C$11,250

Melbet Casino 100% up to C$150

Felicebet Casino 500% up to C$2,600 + 300 FS

Merlin Casino 450% up to C$1,190 + 300 FS

Sapphirebet Casino Up to C$2,422 + 150 FS

Dragonslots Unique 20 FS NDB + 650 FS + C$10,500 welcome bonus

Candy Casino Up to C$1,000 + 150 FS

Rocketspin 100% UP TO C$1,500 + 100 FS