Responsible Gaming

Taking control of your gaming habits starts with simple, practical steps. These strategies can help you maintain a healthy relationship with online gambling:

• Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it
• Decide on time limits for each gaming session
• Never chase losses or try to win back money you’ve lost
• Keep gambling separate from other activities like work or family time
• Avoid gambling when you’re upset, stressed, or under the influence
• Take regular breaks during gaming sessions
• Track your spending and time to stay aware of your habits
• Use deposit limits and other tools provided by online casinos
• View gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money
• Balance gaming with other hobbies and social activities

Recognising warning signs early can help you or someone you care about get support before problems escalate. Watch for these indicators:

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended
• Lying to friends or family about your gambling activities
• Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, studies, or family responsibilities
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down
• Using gambling to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money
• Experiencing relationship conflicts due to gambling
• Thinking about gambling constantly, even during other activities
• Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences

Online casino gaming is restricted to individuals who have reached the legal age of majority in South Africa. Players must be 18 years or older to register an account and participate in real-money gambling. Licensed operators verify age during registration to prevent underage access. Parents and guardians should monitor internet usage and use parental controls to protect minors from gambling sites.

Reputable online casinos offer self-exclusion programmes that allow you to voluntarily block access to your account. These tools are designed for players who recognise they need a break from gambling or want to prevent problematic behaviour. You can typically choose exclusion periods ranging from days to months, or request permanent closure. During the exclusion period, the casino prevents you from logging in, making deposits, or receiving promotional materials. Self-exclusion gives you breathing space to reassess your relationship with gambling and seek support if needed. Contact your casino’s customer service team to activate this feature.

You don’t have to face gambling problems alone. Several trusted organisations in South Africa provide confidential support and treatment:

• National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) – Offers a free 24-hour counselling hotline at 0800 006 008 and operates treatment centres across the country
• South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) – Provides education, research, and access to treatment services for problem gamblers and their families
• Gamblers Anonymous South Africa – Runs support group meetings where individuals can share experiences and receive peer support
• SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) – Offers mental health support that includes assistance for gambling-related issues at 0800 567 567
• LifeLine South Africa – Provides crisis counselling and can refer you to appropriate gambling addiction services at 0861 322 322