Responsible Gaming

Promoting Responsible Gaming

At GetOurBonus, we partner with online casinos, poker sites, and sports betting platforms that offer tools to limit deposits or temporarily or permanently exclude yourself. While we are not healthcare professionals, we have compiled useful information on responsible gaming and gambling problems. Do not hesitate to consult these resources and seek help if needed.

How to Play Safely

For a secure online gaming experience, here are the recommendations from GambleAware, the British organization dedicated to preventing gambling problems:

• Do not consider online gaming as a way to earn money.
• Only play with money you can afford to lose.
• Set a money limit before you start playing.
• Set a time limit for your gaming sessions.
• Do not try to make up for your losses by playing more.
• Avoid playing when you are depressed or upset.
• Balance online gaming with other activities.
• Do not play with your credit card on you.
• Take regular breaks.
• Do not consume alcohol or drugs while playing.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling behavior can lead to serious consequences. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) defines gambling disorder as the presence of at least four of the following criteria over the past year:

• Need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
• Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
• Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling.
• Constant thoughts about gambling.
• Gambling to escape problems or distress.
• Playing to try to win back losses.
• Lying to hide the extent of gambling activities.
• Jeopardizing significant relationships or job opportunities due to gambling.
• Relying on others to bail out financial problems caused by gambling.

If you recognize these signs in yourself, it is important to take steps to control your gambling. Consult BeGambleAware for an anonymous test that could provide additional insights into your gambling habits.

You Are Not Alone

Gambling disorder is a global issue. According to a literature review published in the Journal of Behavioral Addiction, the prevalence of gambling problems ranges from 0.12% to 5.8% worldwide. If you are struggling with this issue, know that you are not alone.

Where to Find Help

If you need help, here are some confidential helpline numbers, available 24/7:

• Alberta: 1-866-332-2322
• British Columbia: 1-888-795-6111
• Manitoba Gambling Helpline: 1-800-463-1554
• New Brunswick: 1-800-461-1234
• Newfoundland and Labrador: 1-888-899-4357
• Nova Scotia: 1-888-347-8888
• Nunavut Kamatsiaqtut: 1-800-265-3333
• Ontario: 1-888-230-3505
• Prince Edward Island: 1-888-299-8399
• Quebec: 514-527-0140
• Montreal and Surroundings: 1-800-461-0140 and 1-866-767-5389
• Saskatchewan: 1-800-306-6789

In case of emergency, please contact your local emergency service or dial 911. For more information, visit ProblemGambling.ca.