Problem Gambling and Gaming

AMHS-KFLA’s Certified Gambling Counsellors offer experienced, confidential support to those affected by gambling or gaming problems, including youth as young as 12.

Problem Gambling

AMHS-KFLA offers one-on-one confidential support from Certified Gambling Counsellors for those who want to look at their gambling habits in more detail, or brief support for those concerned about a loved one’s gambling.

Did you know: About 64.5% of Canadians 15 or older report gambling within the past year; 1.6% of these individuals have a moderate-to-severe risk for problem gambling

(Stats Canada)

Gambling is more than just the casino: bingo, lottery & scratch tickets, sports betting and even trading stocks/bitcoin or loot boxes in video games can be gambling.

Problem Gaming

Although gaming/internet or device use can have multiple benefits and be a healthy way to relax, there are times when either through finances or time this can interfere with day-to-day life or responsibilities.

This can look like running up a credit card balance through microtransactions or loot boxes, missing school or work because you have stayed up late gaming/using your phone or are distracted in the moment, or miss out on events time with family and friends.

At AMHS-KFLA, our Certified Gambling Counsellors also have experience and training in gaming and gamer needs to help individuals and/or loved ones navigate a healthy balance.

Some key questions can help determine if you might benefit from support:

• Have you become restless, irritable or anxious when thinking about or trying to stop/cut down on your gaming/device use?
• Have you tried to cut down but have been unsuccessful?
• Have you kept your friends/family from knowing how often or how much you have spent on gaming?
• Have you lost interest in other hobbies or activities that are not gaming?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, or would like more information, please contact us.

What we offer

We can provide support to those as young as 12 years old, our services are confidential and free.

For those with concerns about their own gambling or gaming, our counsellors offer support in client-led, solution-focused discussions to look at whether or not your gambling/gaming is at a healthy balance, and if not, what changes could occur to achieve what you determine to be a healthy balance for you. Our staff can offer support through multiple research-backed approaches to help you achieve these goals.

For those who are concerned about a loved one’s gambling or gaming, our counsellors can offer short-term, confidential, one-on-one support where you can learn more about problem gambling/gaming, how to financially protect yourself, and create healthy boundaries. Our counsellors will also support in reviewing options for moving forward, including additional referrals if needed.

Visit our Intake & Referrals page to learn more about connecting to services.