Manage YOUR PLAY

Before you start gambling, set clear boundaries for yourself. Decide on a budget you can comfortably afford and stick to it. Consider the amount as an entertainment expense, like a night out. Setting limits upfront prevents difficult choices later and helps you focus on enjoying the game.

It's important to approach gambling with the right mindset. The odds are always in favour of the house, so view gambling as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Think of it like going to a concert or a sporting event; there's a cost associated with the fun. This way, disappointment is less likely if you don't win.

It's easy to lose track of time.  Take regular breaks to refresh your mind and body. Get up, move around, stretch, or grab a snack. This will help you maintain focus and make well-informed decisions throughout your play.

Gambling with a friend can be a fun social experience. However, ensure you both openly discuss your limits beforehand. This helps you stay accountable to each other and prevents getting caught up in the moment. It's also a good idea to mix things up – introduce other activities into your night so you're not solely focused on gambling.

Once you view gambling as entertainment, decide how much you're comfortable spending.  Consider your budget and how much fun you want to have for the price. Sticking to a budget can be challenging, so here are some tips:

• Set a daily budget and a time limit for your play and stick to it.
• Use Play Planner - An optional budgeting tool that keeps track of your play so you can focus on the fun.
• If you are playing on PlayNow, consider adjusting your weekly deposit limit and setting a time limit 

If you're losing more money than you planned or no longer having fun, it's time to walk away. . Other signs it may be time to walk away include chasing losses. If you’re trying to win back money you’ve already lost, you’re more likely to make risky decisions. To learn more, take a look at this page about taking back control.  

For more support, view additional resources here or reach out to a GameSense Advisor (GSA). GSAs are trained specialist available at every casino and community gaming centre, by phone at 1-866-815-0222 or through Live Chat on GameSense.com. They can help educate players about how the games work, safer play habits, and how to set limits when gambling.