Gambling has never been easier as players now have access to numerous online wagering platforms that can be accessed from anywhere and land-based casinos are operational. In light of this, the Canadian Centre on Substance and Addiction has released a new set of guidelines to raise awareness for the possible negative impacts of gambling.

The new recommendations released by the CCSA states that a gambler should not be wagering with more than one percent of his household income for a month. Also, gambling enthusiasts should not wager for more than four days in a month’s time. Another recommendation suggests that gamblers should focus only on two or fewer games.

New Recommendations

Gambling counsellor Chelsea Rodrigues said that problem gambling should not be understated by anyone, regardless of their education, social status, religion, or gender. She said that the new guidelines will come in handy at Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare in Windsor-Essex. Ms. Rodrigues explained that those who have previously suffered from such conditions could be exposed to risks again with the easing of restrictions at casinos.

She continued by saying that the team encourages people who have previously been diagnosed with problematic or addictive gambling not to dive deep into it. Instead, she says that gamblers should test the waters first. Dr. Matthew Young, who helped develop the new guidelines, stated that the new recommendations are a way of limiting people’s participation.

Dr. Young explained that the guidelines should go hand in hand with others, in order to reduce the gambling risks to a minimum. He believes that one of the reasons that gamblers experience some kind of addiction or difficulties is the expenditure and that they spend a certain time away from their families or close ones. Also, they tend to lose lots of time gambling instead of being productive.

Ms. Rodrigues also informed that there is a place for in-person treatment for problematic gambling. She explained that they are seeing people face to face and that they offer a residential program, and its wait time is not that long. She warns that everyone could be a victim of such conditions and advises every gambler to prepare to lose money while wagering.

July Reopening

When it comes to having access to land-based gaming properties locals are in proximity of Caesars Windsor Casino & Hotel. The hotspot was able to renew operations this summer on July 16, 2021. Unifor Local 444 President Dave Cassidy stated that 300 of the union’s 2,200 workers have returned to work. According to the province’s regulations, the casino can operate at 50% of its maximum capacity.

Bonuses Improved

Previously management of the Windsor-Essex venue and the Unifor Local 444 led successful negotiations about improving bonuses of the casino’s senior staff members. The bonus will apply to workers who are over 60 years of age and now have the option to retire earlier than before if they decide to do so. The bonus is also determined depending on years of experience and it can vary.

Source: Campbell, Chris “New guidelines released for Windsor-Essex residents to consider before gambling” Windsor CTV News, September 15, 2021