Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At bestwesternkitchenerwaterloo.com, we believe that gambling should only be viewed as entertainment—similar to going to a movie or concert. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set realistic expectations about the odds.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Canada is only legal for individuals who are 18 years of age or older (or the legal age of majority in your province). We are committed to preventing underage gambling and reserve the right to verify your age at any time. If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not access our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following behaviours in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, utilities, bills)
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about the amount you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Gambling longer or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social activities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Unable to control or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Experiencing relationship conflicts because of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control. We encourage you to use these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during your gaming session about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your account if you need a break
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your session after a set duration
Take advantage of these tools—they're designed to protect you and help you gamble responsibly.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted Canadian resources:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
A leading Canadian organization offering research, resources, and support for problem gambling prevention and treatment.
International Support Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free confidential support and counselling for problem gambling. - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling. - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counselling and support services for problem gambling. - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Resources and referrals for gambling addiction treatment.
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with the right support. If you're experiencing difficulties with gambling—whether financial, emotional, or relational—please don't hesitate to reach out to one of the organizations listed above. Speaking with a counsellor or therapist who specializes in gambling addiction can make a real difference.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.