For most people, gambling is an occasional and enjoyable part of life. People play lotteries and bingos, go to casinos, or bet on horse races and sporting events. Proceeds from gambling are used to fund charities, non-profit agencies and community programs.
Here are some questions and answers about gambling:
What is gambling?
Gambling is the act of risking money, property or something of value on an activity with
an uncertain outcome. Gambling takes many forms:
- lottery tickets, raffle tickets or scratch-and-win tickets
- Sport Select tickets
- playing card games for money
- playing games of skill (such as pool, golf, arm wrestling or darts) for money
- betting money on anything (like whether a friend will ask someone out)
What is legalized gambling?
Legalized gambling exists in a variety of forms in Alberta, including casinos, racetracks, video lottery terminals (VLTs), bingo, Sport Select and lotteries. These types of gambling are legal because they’re managed by the government or by regulations set by the government.
So what is illegal gambling?
Illegal gambling is gambling that happens outside of these regulations. Placing a bet with a bookie (someone who accepts large bets from different people) on a professional sporting event is an example.
Why do people gamble?
People gamble for a lot of reasons:
- for fun or excitement
- to escape or forget about problems
- to win money
- to feel challenged
Do teenagers gamble much?
About two out of three teenagers gamble. Generally, teens gamble through bets with friends on card games, pool games or pro sports. Teens aged 18 and older are allowed to play VLTs, gamble in casinos and buy lottery tickets.
Is there such a thing as a safe bet?
All gambling or betting has an element of risk. Here are some guidelines for gambling responsibly:
- Limit the amount of money you bet.
- Limit the amount of time you spend betting.
- Balance gambling with other social opportunities and interests.
- Don’t spend your winnings on gambling.
Most people gamble responsibly. But for some people, gambling can be a lot like an addictive drug—and it can become a problem. Problem gamblers often have trouble with money, stress, and family or relationship problems. They may often feel guilty and out of control because of their losses. Problem gamblers may also get into trouble like gambling until all of their money is gone, owing money to family and friends, and going into debt to pay for their gambling. This kind of trouble can cause stress, fear, pain and embarrassment for the people involved.
To find out more about problem gambling, check out the Problem Gambling FAQ
