Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At lauramccoy.ca, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or attending a concert. It should never be considered a way to make money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

Online gambling in Canada is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the legal age of majority in your province). We strictly prohibit access to minors. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to register or place bets.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Do you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know?

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Lying to family, friends, or therapists about gambling activities or losses
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress related to gambling
• Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
• Being unable to cut back or stop gambling despite trying
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
• Experiencing relationship problems or job loss due to gambling
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to reduce gambling

If you identify with any of these signs, it may be time to seek help.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable Canadian online casinos offer the following tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logouts after a certain period of play
• Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications reminding you of how long you've been playing and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period (days, months, or years)
• Account Cooling-Off: Take a temporary break from your account without permanently closing it
• Session History: Review detailed records of your gambling activity

We encourage you to utilize these tools to keep your gambling habits safe and enjoyable.

Support Organizations & Resources for Canada

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these organizations:

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Leading Canadian organization providing evidence-based resources and support
• Gambling Therapy
  Website: www.gamblingtherapy.org
  Free, confidential support and self-help resources
• Gamblers Anonymous
  A peer-support fellowship offering free meetings across Canada

International Resources

• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  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

Need Help?

If you believe you have a gambling problem or are concerned about someone else's gambling habits, please reach out for support immediately. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional counsellors and peer-support groups are ready to assist you, and all services are confidential.

Remember: You are not alone, and recovery is possible with the right support.