Responsible gambling means betting for fun, with money you can afford to lose, and stopping when it isn’t fun any more. Most punters manage this without a second thought. For some, though, betting can slowly become a problem, and help is free and easy to reach.
Get help now
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation runs a free counselling line. Call 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp HELP to 076 675 0710. You can also visit responsiblegambling.org.za.
Signs that betting is becoming a problem
- You bet more than you planned, or chase losses to win them back.
- You borrow money, or use money meant for bills, to bet.
- You hide your betting from family or friends.
- You feel anxious or irritable when you are not betting.
- Betting takes up time you would normally spend on work, family or sleep.
If any of these sound familiar, it is worth talking to someone. The counselling line above is a good place to start.
Tools every licensed bookmaker offers
All the bookmakers we list let you control your betting from your account settings:
- Deposit limits. Cap how much you can deposit each day, week or month.
- Time outs. Lock your account for a short break, from a day to several weeks.
- Self exclusion. Close your account for six months or longer. The foundation also runs a self exclusion programme that covers every licensed operator.
You can also install blocking apps such as Gamban, which stop betting sites loading on your phone or computer.
Simple rules that help
- Set a budget before you start, and stick to it.
- Treat any money you bet as the cost of entertainment, not an investment.
- Never bet when you are upset, stressed or have been drinking.
- Take regular breaks, and keep betting separate from your everyday banking.
Under 18s
Betting is illegal for anyone under 18 in South Africa. If you share a phone or computer with children, use parental controls to block betting sites.