18+ only. Gambling involves financial risk and should never be treated as income, an investment or a solution to debt.
Set limits before you start
- Use only money already allocated to entertainment.
- Set a firm deposit and loss limit before opening an app or website.
- Set a time limit and take regular breaks.
- Never borrow money to gamble and never chase a loss.
- Do not gamble while distressed, intoxicated or trying to solve a financial problem.
Warning signs
Stop and seek help if gambling is becoming secretive, causing conflict, interfering with work or sleep, leading to borrowing, or repeatedly breaking limits you intended to keep. A win does not make the next bet safer, and a loss does not make a recovery more likely.
South African support
The National Responsible Gambling Programme provides free support and counselling. The current contacts published by the National Gambling Board are:
- 24-hour toll-free helpline: 0800 006 008
- WhatsApp: 076 675 0710
- Email: helpline@responsiblegambling.org.za
- Programme website: responsiblegambling.org.za
Self-exclusion
The National Gambling Board explains that a person can request exclusion through a gambling operator and seek support from the National Responsible Gambling Programme. Read the NGB’s current self-exclusion guidance and contact the programme for help with the process.
If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact local emergency services or a trusted person immediately.