When Gambling Isn't Fun Anymore
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Gambling is a popular activity. Most people can gamble in a safe and responsible way. But for others, gambling can become a problem. According to independent research conducted recently for the provincial government, approximately 5% of the population have problems with their gambling.


Are you looking for information on voluntary self-exclusion? Read our Voluntary Self-Exclusion brochure [81KB].

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What is problem gambling?

If a player has a gambling problem it means that he or she has lost some degree of control over their gambling, and that they’re losing money intended for other purposes (rent, food, and so on). This behaviour is likely having a negative impact on him or her, their family/friends, and maybe their schooling or their job.

What are the signs that you, or someone you know, may have a problem?

  • Lying about the time or money spent gambling or about wins and losses
  • Increasing the amount bet to try and win back money (“chasing losses”)
  • Often gambling until that last dollar is gone
  • Making repeated trips to the bank machine to get more money to gamble
  • Having unrealistic expectations about the chances of a win
  • Feeling defensive or guilty when asked about gambling
  • Borrowing or stealing money to gamble or cover losses
  • Skipping school or work in order to gamble
  • Neglecting or arguing with family and friends because of gambling
  • Wanting to find a way out of excessive gambling
  • Denying there is a problem even when gambling is out of control
  • Drinking increasing amounts of alcohol
  • Gambling to escape other problems

When gambling becomes a problem

If you or someone you know have issues around controlling gambling behaviours and are looking for help, please call the BC Problem Gambling Help Line at 1-888-795-6111, or visit the British Columbia Partnership for Responsible Gambling.

The Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program can be an important first step in helping you to control your gambling. The program enables you to voluntarily exclude yourself from all facilities with slot machines, commercial bingo halls, or from accessing BCLC’s online gaming site, PlayNow.com, for a predetermined amount of time. For more information read our Voluntary Self-Exclusion brochure [81KB].

BC Government's Responsible Gambling Strategy

Each fiscal year, a portion of gaming revenue is dedicated to programs designed to address problem gambling issues and promote responsible gambling. The Responsible Gambling Strategy is managed by the Ministry of Housing and Social Development through the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch. The current budget for the Problem Gambling Program is $7 million.

The program includes a toll-free Problem Gambling Help Line that provides referrals to free counselling services. The toll-free Help Line number is 1-888-795-6111.

Brochures and posters about the program are widely available at casinos, commercial bingo halls and lottery outlets. Most BCLC gambling products and venues carry the toll-free Help Line number.