Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Judith Martin, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Sports betting should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a means to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to participate in sports betting, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age or the legal age of majority in your Canadian province or territory to participate in sports betting. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under the legal age requirement, please do not use any betting platforms.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate a developing gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Spending more time or money on betting than intended
- Experiencing anxiety or irritability when unable to bet
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Feeling the need to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Lying about gambling habits or losses
If you recognize any of these signs in your own behavior, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible sportsbooks offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly limit on the amount you can deposit
- Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount you can lose within a specified timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during betting sessions about time spent and money wagered
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (days or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily block yourself from accessing betting platforms
Take advantage of these tools to help manage your gambling behavior responsibly.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organizations provide confidential support:
-
Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides research, education, and resources for problem gambling prevention across Canada -
Problem Gambling Services
Contact your provincial health authority or mental health services for local helplines and counseling services -
Gamblers Anonymous
A 12-step support group with meetings across Canada for those seeking recovery from problem gambling -
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Offers resources and referrals for problem gambling support
All services are confidential and available to anyone seeking assistance.
If You Need Help
Do not hesitate to reach out for support. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. Whether you need advice, counseling, or crisis support, the organizations listed above are ready to help you 24/7.
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your mental health and financial wellbeing are important.