As sports enthusiasts take a brief pause before the Sweet 16 begins on Thursday in the NCAA Men's College Basketball Tournament, bettors are reflecting on their successes and setbacks from an eventful weekend filled with March Madness.
Today signifies that there are just seven days left until the conclusion of Problem Gambling Awareness Month in both the United States and Canada, where both nations have been actively promoting awareness and providing resources to address gambling issues and addiction.
For those who suspect they may be struggling with gambling addiction, Canada provides various resources and support options. The government of Ontario allocates funds generated from slot machines in charity casinos and racetracks to support initiatives such as a helpline for problem gamblers, counseling services, research, and educational programs regarding gambling aimed at both the public and mental health professionals.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has published a comprehensive 36-page guide entitled 'Problem Gambling: The Issues, the Options,' which is structured into five informative sections covering topics like What Is Gambling?, What Is Problem Gambling?, The Effects of Gambling, Finding Help, and Where to Access Support.
* In Ontario, residents placed an astounding $63 billion in bets across different gambling platforms, representing an impressive 78% increase from last year, with total gaming revenues hitting $2.4 billion, a 72% rise compared to the previous fiscal year.
Ontario Statistics from 2023-24
Ontario Statistics from 2023-24
The number of active player accounts surged to 1.3 million in the last quarter of the 2023-2024 fiscal year, indicating a growing trend in online gambling participation.
Revenue generated from games also saw significant growth, contributing $1.8 billion to the total gaming income, with noteworthy amounts also coming from betting and peer-to-peer poker games.
* Online casino In Canada, there are 24/7 helplines available for those seeking assistance.
Here are some confidential resources provided by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse that could be useful if you are looking for help:
British Columbia Problem Gambling Information and Referral Service: 1-888-795-6111
New Brunswick Problem Gamblers Hotline: 1-800-461-1234
Manitoba Gambling Helpline: 1-800-463-1554
Newfoundland and Labrador Helpline: 1-888-899-4357
Nova Scotia Toll-Free Gambling Helpline: 1-888-347-8888
Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-888-230-3505
Prince Edward Island Gambling Addiction Treatment Program: 1-888-299-8399
Montreal and surrounding areas: (514) 527-0140; for the rest of the province: 1-800-461-0140 and 1-866-767-5389
Québec Gambling Help and Referral >
Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-306-6789
The online casino gaming scene in Ontario features a variety of exciting and engaging options.
