Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Lark and Dives, we believe sports betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to approach betting with a clear understanding that the house always has an edge, and losing is a real possibility.
We encourage all players to bet only what they can afford to lose and to maintain control over their gaming habits.
Age Verification
Sports betting is only available to individuals who are 19 years of age or older in Canada (or 18+ in jurisdictions where that is the legal age). By using any sports betting site, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your province or territory.
If you are underage, please do not participate in betting activities. Protecting young people from problem gambling is a shared responsibility.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in your own behavior, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing Losses: Betting more money to recover losses
- Hiding Gambling: Concealing your betting activity from friends or family
- Loss of Control: Betting more than you intended or gambling longer than planned
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Financial Strain: Borrowing money to gamble or experiencing debt problems
- Mood Changes: Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
- Tolerance: Needing to bet larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship Problems: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
- Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next bet
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable sportsbooks offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a cap on how much you're willing to lose
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum stake on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications about time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an account for a set period or permanently
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Primary Canadian Resources:
-
Responsible Gambling Council (Ontario)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides research, education, and treatment referrals across Canada -
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Offers confidential support and counseling services
International Resources:
-
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National helpline: 1-800-522-4700 -
GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Provides free and confidential support -
GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion Scheme)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Multi-operator self-exclusion program
Provincial Resources:
Many provinces offer specialized gambling helplines and services. Contact your provincial health authority or search for "problem gambling help" in your province for local resources and counseling options.
Take Action Today
If you're concerned about your gambling habits or those of someone you care about, please reach out for help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remember: You don't have to face problem gambling alone. Professional counselors and support groups are available to help you regain control.
Visit one of the organizations listed above or speak with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and support services tailored to your needs.