Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Les Copains, we believe that gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to a movie or attending a concert. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
If you find yourself viewing gambling as a source of income or a solution to financial difficulties, it may be time to seek help.
Age Verification
Gambling is only legal for individuals who are 18 years of age or older in Canada. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and take age verification seriously. By accessing betting sites through lescopains.ca, you confirm that you are of legal age to gamble in your province or territory.
If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not use these services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to recover money lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from friends and family
- Increasing Amounts: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Stop: Repeatedly trying to reduce or stop gambling without success
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial Problems: Using money meant for bills, rent, or essential expenses to gamble
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Relationship Strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
- Using Gambling to Escape: Gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness
- Borrowing Money: Taking loans or asking friends/family for money to gamble
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, please reach out for support.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most licensed betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a set period
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can stake on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Receive automatic reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to prevent extended gambling periods
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
- Account Closure: Close your account if you need a complete break from gambling
We strongly encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Comprehensive resources for problem gambling prevention and support
- Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario: Provides treatment and support services across Ontario
- Gamblers Anonymous: Free peer support meetings available across Canada
International Resources
- United Kingdom: GamCare and GamStop — Free counseling and self-exclusion services
- Australia: Gambling Help Online — Confidential support and counseling
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling — Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Confidential Helplines
All calls and consultations with these organizations are confidential:
- Talk to a counselor who specializes in problem gambling
- Discuss treatment options and support services
- Learn about self-exclusion programs
- Receive referrals to local resources in your area
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. There is no shame in seeking help. Whether you're concerned about your own gambling or worried about someone else, professional support is available and can make a real difference.
If you are experiencing gambling-related problems:
- Contact the Responsible Gambling Council for Canadian resources
- Speak with a trusted friend or family member
- Consult your doctor or a mental health professional
- Use the self-exclusion tools available on betting platforms
Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support is available, and recovery is possible.