Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At mynanaimo.org, we believe that bitcoin betting and gambling should only be enjoyed as a form of entertainment. Gambling is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and never view gambling as an investment or income source.
If you find yourself relying on gambling for money, or if it's causing financial stress, please reach out to one of the support organizations listed below.
Age Verification
You must be at least 19 years of age to participate in gambling activities in Canada. This is the legal age of majority for gambling in most Canadian provinces.
mynanaimo.org does not permit access to gambling services for anyone under the legal age. If you are underage, please do not attempt to register or participate.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritizing gambling over work, school, or family obligations
- Financial strain: Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to bet more money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Using gambling to cope: Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems
- Lying about gambling: Being dishonest with others about how much time or money you spend gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
If you're concerned about your gambling, consider using these responsible gaming tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a given time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time-Out (Cool-Off Period): Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours or days)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a defined period (weeks, months, or years)
- Budget Management: Track your gambling spending as part of your overall budget
Most reputable gambling platforms allow you to set these limits directly in your account settings. We encourage you to use them proactively.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are recognized support organizations:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- Gamblers Anonymous Canada — Free peer support meetings across Canada
- Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-888-230-3505 (available 24/7)
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (available 24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (Self-Exclusion Register) — www.gamstop.co.uk
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — German health education centre with gambling disorder resources
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible with proper support.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling:
- Contact one of the support organizations listed above
- Speak with a trusted family member or friend
- Reach out to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional
- Use self-exclusion tools to restrict your access to gambling
You are not alone. Help is available 24/7.
Important Disclaimer
This responsible gaming information is provided for educational purposes. mynanaimo.org is committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices. By using our site, you acknowledge that you are of legal age, understand the risks of gambling, and accept responsibility for your own gaming decisions.