Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At ESL Resources, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use gambling services in Canada. Some provinces may have different legal ages—please check your local regulations. By using this site, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction.

Parents and Guardians: If you are concerned about a minor's access to gambling content, please use parental control software to restrict access.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about time and money spent
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to stop or reduce gambling
• Neglecting family, work, school, or other important responsibilities
• Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
• Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape negative emotions or stress
• Risking relationships, employment, or educational opportunities

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable gambling platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you are willing to lose in a given timeframe
• Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks and limit your gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Enable notifications that remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
• Account Cooling-Off: Take a break from your account for a set period

Take advantage of these tools if you feel your gambling may be getting out of control.

Get Help — Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. Here are trusted organizations that can help:

Canada (Primary Resources)

• Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Toll-Free: 1-800-522-4700
  Provides information, counselling, and support services across Canada.
• Gambling Helpline (British Columbia)
  Toll-Free: 1-888-795-6111
  Free confidential counselling available 24/7.
• Connex Ontario
  Toll-Free: 1-866-531-2600
  Free information and referral service for problem gambling support.

International Resources

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free support and counselling for problem gambling.
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion service for online gambling.
• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free and confidential counselling and support.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Resources and referrals for problem gambling support.

All services are confidential and free of charge.

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is treatable. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please don't hesitate to seek help. Contact one of the organizations listed above—trained counselors are ready to support you.

Remember: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Disclaimer

ESL Resources is committed to promoting responsible gambling. This page provides information and resources for educational purposes. If you have concerns about your gambling habits, please consult the support organizations listed above or speak with a healthcare professional. All individuals must comply with local laws and regulations regarding gambling in their jurisdiction.

Last Updated: 2026