Responsible Gambling

Curious about all there is to know about gambling in Canada and New Zealand but not quite sure how to go about it or even how to do it responsibly? Well, you’re in the right place, as this article will help you understand the key things necessary for playing responsibly in Canada and New Zealand. Keep on scrolling to learn about the laws in Canada and New Zealand, dealing with casino addiction, and tips for playing responsibly.

Whether you are thinking of gambling through land-based or online casinos, it can be a lot of fun. That is if it is done with the mindset of taking your mind off the stresses and bustles of everyday life and earning some cool cash along the way. This seems harmless, right? Well, it is, but not all the time.

Sometimes, gaming can transcend from being entertaining to an addiction that just sucks you in and leaves you wanting more. This is why responsible gaming is supported by top casinos in Canada and New Zealand. This article will guide you to a responsible and safe online gaming environment to ensure that it is done responsibly and does not lead to any health, social or financial-related problems.

Gambling Addiction

Like any other addiction, this can also be categorized as a mental disorder. The reason it is classified as such is that those that are addicted simply cannot control themselves. They have no idea how to set limits to their actions, even if they are fully aware that it is hurting the people around them and also themselves.

Gambling addiction refers to the situation where gambling (online or land-based) begins to affect a person’s life negatively. Most of the time, this causes major issues to a person’s physical and emotional well-being, financial situation, job, relationships, family or even state of mind. At this point, the individual needs help.

So, what do you look out for in a gambling addict? Let’s have a look.

Gambling Addiction Signs

No singular causes or factors show how the addiction works because it ranges from something as simple as a player not being in control of their behaviour to as complicated as a player already struggling with addiction in another area of their life. This makes them vulnerable to gambling addiction.

Here are tell-tale signs that you should look out for:

• Their daily activities and thoughts are consumed by that betting and the next available time to play.
• They use it as a coping mechanism for the problems they face and the stresses accompanying them.
• Symptoms of agitation, annoyance, and withdrawal often occur when the addiction is cut back.
• They are dependent on other people for money to cover their expenses for living after they have lost.
• They try to chase losses and look for ways to recover money by betting again.
• They tend to bet high amounts of money continuously to feel rewarded.
• They have no limit on the amount of money that is spent chasing losses and gambling.
• They keep their family and friends in the dark about the problem.
• They are willing to participate in illegal activities to keep feeding their addiction.
• They have made efforts in the past to stop it but have failed.

If you identify with two or more of the things on this list, it is highly advised that you reach out to a professional for advice.

There are three prominent addiction categories, and they are as follows:

• The Problem Gambler often chases losses without stopping. There is no desire to stop, and they keep on going even when they no longer have the means.

• The Binge Gambler doesn’t necessarily spend hours betting, but when they do, they overdo it. They cannot control themselves when wagering, even though they can control the frequency of their wagers.

• The Compulsive Gambler has no control. They do not think of the effects of gambling or the consequences of their actions on their family, which might mean betting amounts of money they do not have and finding a reason to gamble, even if there isn’t one.

No matter what stage one is in, there is always help available for the person.

How to Deal With Casino Addiction

Here are some general tips on how to gamble responsibly:

1. The first thing to do is to remember that it is paid entertainment which means you’re spending money to get entertained.
2. Always set a money limit. This will ensure that you have a budget for it; once that budget is exceeded, it’s time to stop.
3. Set a time limit. Whether winning or losing, ensure that you set a time limit that will give you ample time for other activities.
4. Do not chase after losses. If you have lost money, do not keep playing with the hope that you will get that money back, it will lead to problem gambling.
5. Do not play with money that you do not have. It’s meant to be a fun hobby, so if you do not have money, don’t play.
6. Do not gamble under the influence. Be it pressure from peers or the influence of drugs or drinks. Stay limited and grounded in the limits you have set.

Gambling Responsibly – Limits & Withdrawals

Here are ways to gamble responsibly:

• Self-exclusion periods – you can lock your casino account for six months. This is based on the premise that you as a player can request to go for a self-exclusion period because of this addiction or an inability to control it. All funds in the account will then be subject to the terms and conditions of the casino. You will also not be contacted with a reminder by the casino when the six months have elapsed.
• Removal from promotional emails – the moment you decide to take a break, your account will automatically be converted to no promotion material for the extent of your break. This means that you will not receive any promotional content.
• Cool-off period – if you do not want to block your account for six months, you can request a cool-off period of either 24 hours or seven days.
• Set limits for deposits – you can also set limits for deposits daily, weekly or monthly. This will help curb the amount of money spent at any given time.
• Choose only legitimate casino websites with security features.
• Set a time limit for playing daily and weekly.
• If you need to, block yourself from online casinos.

How to Break Free from a Gambling Addiction

• Understand the issue – It is important to understand that you have a gambling issue and want to break free from it.
• Find a support group – A support group will help you with assistance and support and point you to a professional to help you out of this addiction.
• Avoid the temptation – Avoid the temptation of places, people, sites or activities that can trigger a setback or a relapse if you’re trying to break free.
• Postpone it – Addictions come with cravings, so if you have a craving to gamble at the moment, start first by postponing it.
• Find alternatives to it – There are numerous alternatives to gambling. Replace the addiction with healthy lifestyle choices, such as meditation, spending time with family, physical activities, going for walks, exploring new hobbies, etc.
• Think of the consequences – Thinking of the consequences will help you make better decisions, and one of them would be to seek professional help.

How to Get Help

Several organizations in Canada and New Zealand are ready to help you, and most of the help is available 24/7. Here are a few to consider:

• TAB NZ – contact them at [email protected]
• Gambling Helpline – They offer free and confidential support and counselling services 24/7. Call the Helpline 0800 654 655. You can also text the Helpline at any time on 8006.
• Gamblers Anonymous – loaded with helpful materials on responsible gambling.
• ProblemGambling – is great for those who suffer from this addiction.

You can also reach out to the following responsible gaming council:

• Alberta. Alberta Health Services. 1-866-332-2322.
• British Columbia. British Columbia Partnership for Responsible Gambling. 1-888-795-6111.
• Manitoba. Addictions Foundation in Manitoba. 1-855-662-6605.
• New Brunswick. New Brunswick Health. 1-800-461-1234.
• Newfoundland. Newfoundland Labrador Health and Community Services. 1-877-999-7589.
• Northwest Territories. NWT Health and Social Services. 1-800-661-0844.
• Nova Scotia. Problem Gambling Help Line. 1-888-347-8888.
• Nunavut. Nunavut Health and Social Services. 1-800-265-3333.
• Ontario. ConnexOntario. 1-866-531-2600.
• Prince Edward Island. Health PEI Gambling Addiction Services. 1-855-255-4255.
• Quebec. Gambling: Help and Referral. 1-800-461-0140.
• Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Health – Gambling. 1-306-787-7239.
• Yukon Territory. Yukon Health and Social Services. 1-800-661-0408.

As much as we would love for you to enjoy playing, we would also love to ensure that your well-being and safety are always maintained, hence, the need to practice responsible gambling. There is no shame in asking for help, so do not hesitate to reach out to any of the organizations listed above if you need help or if there is someone you know who needs help.