Responsible Play
Last updated: May 2026
1. Our Approach
Pool Addicts is software for organising and scoring sports pools for entertainment among friends, coworkers, and family. The Platform does not process, hold, or distribute any pool entry fees or prize money — those arrangements are handled entirely outside the Platform by the pool administrator and participants.
Even though we are not a gambling operator, we recognise that any activity that involves friendly stakes can become unhealthy for some people. This page exists so that users, friends, and family have a clear path to support if needed.
2. Stay In Control
- Only participate in pools you can comfortably afford as entertainment.
- Set a budget for the season — both in time and money — before you join, not during.
- Take regular breaks. Sports pools are most enjoyable as a small part of a balanced week.
- Never chase losses by joining additional pools to "make it back."
- Avoid making picks while under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
3. Warning Signs
Consider seeking support if you or someone you know experiences any of the following:
- Spending more time or money on pools than originally planned
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or skipping bills to fund pool participation
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent on pools or related activities
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when not participating
- Pool participation interfering with work, relationships, school, or sleep
- Continuing to play despite knowing it is causing harm
4. Where To Get Help
Confidential help is available 24/7, free of charge, in both Canada and the United States.
Canada
- ConnexOntario (Ontario, 24/7): 1-866-531-2600 · connexontario.ca
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada-wide resources): responsiblegambling.org
- Gambling Helpline BC: 1-888-795-6111
- Alberta Health Services Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322
- Manitoba Addictions Helpline: 1-855-662-6605
- Jeu: aide et référence (Québec, 24/7): 1-800-461-0140 · aidejeu.ca
- Gamblers Anonymous Canada: gamblersanonymous.org
United States
- National Problem Gambling Helpline (24/7): 1-800-522-4700 · Text "HELPLINE" to 800-522-4700 · ncpgambling.org
- Gamblers Anonymous (US): gamblersanonymous.org
- SAMHSA National Helpline (substance use and behavioural health, 24/7): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
5. Taking A Break From Pool Addicts
If you would like to step away from the Platform, you have two options:
- Self-pause: sign out, mute notifications in your account settings, and leave any active pools you administer. Existing pool memberships can be ended by notifying your pool admin.
- Self-exclusion: if you would like us to disable your account so that it cannot be used to join or create pools, email support@pooladdicts.com from the address on your account. You may specify a fixed period (for example, six or twelve months) or an indefinite hold. We will confirm in writing once the hold is in place. Self-exclusion holds can only be lifted by contacting support after the period has ended.
6. Protecting Minors
Pool Addicts is restricted to users 18 years of age or older. We require date-of-birth at registration and do not knowingly permit accounts for anyone under 18. If you believe a minor is using the Platform, please report it immediately to support@pooladdicts.com. For tools to protect children online, see Common Sense Mediaand your device's built-in parental controls.
7. Contact
We are not a substitute for professional help, but we are happy to assist with anything Platform-related. Reach us at support@pooladdicts.com.