Healthy play is at the heart of everything we do at Atlantic Lottery. It guides our decisions, shapes our programs and reflects our responsibility to help players enjoy gambling as entertainment while staying in control. Break in Play, the refreshed version of our voluntary self exclusion program, was created with that commitment in mind. It offers players a more flexible, approachable and supportive way to pause their play whenever they feel it is the right choice.

The program name was very intentional. “Break in Play” shifts the focus away from restriction and toward self-care. It reflects feedback from both responsible gambling experts and players who told us that making the program easier to understand and less stigmatizing could encourage more people to use it when they need it. That simple change in tone helps players see the program as a tool designed for them, not something to shy away from.

Break in Play also gives players more freedom to choose what feels right for them. The previous program only offered a single short break, which didn’t meet everyone’s needs. With the updated version, players now have a range of time options that support different situations – whether they want a day to reset, a month to refocus or a longer pause to rebuild healthy habits. This added flexibility means each player can tailor the break to their own life and comfort level.

What makes Break in Play truly meaningful is the support built into every aspect of the experience. From the moment a player begins their break, they receive clear information about what to expect and where they can find help if they want it. Players also receive additional communication throughout the journey, including reminders about the conditions of their break and guidance on healthy play strategies. By strengthening these touchpoints, we help players feel supported rather than alone.

When players are ready to return, the process reinforces reflection and self-awareness. For shorter breaks, that means reviewing Healthy Play information and acknowledging that they feel ready to return. For longer breaks, players complete a brief online Return to Play program that includes educational content and a simple evaluation. The evaluation is by no means a test; it is an opportunity to pause, reflect and return with confidence and clarity.

Break in Play also protects players during moments when they may be most vulnerable. Once a break is confirmed, it cannot be reversed. This safeguard ensures that the decision to pause remains intact even if someone feels tempted to return before they are ready. And while the longest break available for selection is thirty-six months, players actually have full control over when they return because a break can remain active indefinitely if they choose not to complete the Return to Play process. That level of autonomy matters, especially during periods when players are prioritizing their well-being.

This program is part of a wider network of PlayWise tools designed to help players understand their habits and set healthy boundaries. Features like deposit, wager and time limits, along with the personalized PlayWise rating, help players monitor their own play and make decisions that align with their comfort level. Break in Play adds another layer of protection for times when stepping away completely is the healthiest choice.

Healthy play is not about limiting fun. It is about empowering players to enjoy gambling responsibly, confidently and with the support they deserve. Break in Play is one more way Atlantic Lottery is helping players take control, find balance and return to play only when the time is right for them.

If you or someone you know is feeling concerned about gambling, help is always close by. Every Atlantic province offers free, confidential support lines that are available around the clock, and players can explore additional Healthy Play tools and resources through PlayWise on alc.ca.