Poker should cost you an evening's entertainment, nothing more. If it's costing more than that, or you're chasing losses, these services are free and confidential:
| Province | Help line |
|---|---|
| Ontario | ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600 |
| Alberta | Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322 |
| British Columbia | Gambling Support BC: 1-888-795-6111 |
| Quebec | Jeu : aide et référence: 1-800-461-0140 |
| Saskatchewan | Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-306-6789 |
| New Brunswick | Gambling Information Line: 1-800-461-1234 |
| Nova Scotia | Gambling Support Network: 1-888-347-8888 |
| Prince Edward Island | Problem Gambling Help Line: 1-855-255-4255 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Problem Gambling Help Line: 1-888-899-4357 |
| Anywhere in Canada | Call 211 or visit 211.ca for local services, including Manitoba and the territories |
Tools that work
- Set a deposit limit in the cashier before you play, not after a bad session.
- Use the site's time-out or self-exclusion option. Every licensed site in Ontario and Alberta must offer one.
- Never play with money set aside for bills.
Signs it is time to stop
- You are depositing more to win back what you lost.
- You are hiding how much you play or spend.
- Poker is cutting into sleep, work or time with family.
- You feel worse after playing, win or lose.
Any one of these is reason enough to call. The people who answer do this every day and will not judge you.
More help
- Responsible Gambling Council, a Canadian non-profit with tools and information.
- 211 Canada, which connects you to local services by phone, text or chat.
Phone numbers checked November 14, 2026. If a number has changed, 211 will have the current one.