Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At East Coast Social Change, we believe that online casino gaming through Interac should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.
Set a budget you can afford to lose, treat any winnings as a bonus, and always remember that the house has a mathematical advantage. If gaming stops being fun, it's time to take a break.
Age Verification
In Canada, you must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal age in your province) to participate in online casino gaming. Age verification is a legal requirement, and we take this responsibility seriously.
If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not access gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to implement parental controls on devices used by minors.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount wagered
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gaming
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gaming
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems or difficult emotions
- Risking important relationships, education, or career opportunities
- Experiencing physical symptoms (sleep loss, stress-related illness)
If you or someone you care about exhibits these signs, professional help is available and seeking support is a sign of strength.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control. Consider using these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum loss amount you're willing to accept in a given period
- Reality Checks: Enable periodic reminders during gaming sessions to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Session Limits: Set time restrictions on how long you can play in one session
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms if needed
- Account Cooling Off: Take a break from gaming for a set period without closing your account permanently
Take advantage of these tools to stay in control and game responsibly.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organizations that provide confidential support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Provides research, resources, and support for responsible gambling in Ontario and beyond
- Gamblers Anonymous Canada: Free peer support meetings and resources across Canada
- Canadian Problem Gambling Services: Many provinces offer free counselling and support services—contact your local health authority
International Resources
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
- United Kingdom - GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free counselling and support
- United Kingdom - GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Australia - Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and information
All of these organizations offer confidential support and can be reached by phone or online chat, often free of charge.
If You Need Help
Seeking help for problem gambling is not a weakness—it's a positive step toward recovery and well-being. You are not alone, and support is available.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Contact the Responsible Gambling Council at www.responsiblegambling.org
- Reach out to a local counsellor or therapist specializing in gambling issues
- Attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting in your community
- Speak with a trusted family member, friend, or healthcare provider
- Use your casino's self-exclusion or account closure tools immediately
Recovery is possible. Help is just a call or click away.