There’s a blurry line between trying your luck at Lotto and a growing appetite for gambling. Winning is highly addictive and stakes are high
Who hasn’t dreamt of winning the jackpot? It’s okay to buy a Lotto ticket, bet on a horse, play the slot machines or gamble online – as long as you can afford it and only do it occasionally. There’s nothing wrong with trying your luck now and then (unless your beliefs tell you otherwise). In Western society gambling is portrayed as glamorous, but the blingy world of casinos hides a slippery slope that can lead you into dark despair.
GAMBLING ADDICTION IS NO JOKE
Most South Africans who gamble (about half the population) don’t have a problem. They are recreational gamblers who gamble for fun and generally decide beforehand how much money they can afford to lose.
However, for some, gambling becomes obsessive and causes negative consequences for themselves and loved ones. These are the 2.7% of South Africans who are problem gamblers, according to the SA Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF). When problem gambling spirals out of control and causes significant harm, the individual may have a psychiatric disorder impacting their impulse control. Pathological or compulsive gamblers make up 1.5% of the population. These numbers may seem insignificant, but if you consider that SA’s population is almost 61 million, the issue should not be ignored. If 30 million people gamble, almost a million of them are addicted.
DID YOU KNOW?
The South African gambling industry earned R34.4 billion in 2021/22.
IT’S EASY TO GET HOOKED
Problem gambling typically starts on slot machines because they are high-intensity, easy to use and readily available on a casino floor, according to SARGF. South Africa currently has 38 licensed casinos, and slot machines earn 76% of their revenue.
Casinos make gambling pleasurable – some are open 24/7 and offer free drinks, food and even childcare – so gamblers lose track of time. The more time you spend in a casino, the more likely you will be drawn to the high-stakes games like roulette and poker.
Online gambling is growing too. It’s available anywhere, anytime. According to Old Mutual, 30% of working South Africans gamble online (casino, Lotto, betting) at least once a week. Sports betting is on the rise and more popular than lottery games, says the National Gambling Board.
IT'S A PROBLEM IF...
...you answer ‘yes’ to any of these:
For couples married in community of property, the gambler’s debt will become their spouse’s debt too, so if you spot any worrisome signs in your partner, seek professional help to prevent the problem from spiralling out of control – for both of you.
GET HELP!
Gambling addiction can be treated if you truly want to stop. Start by calling SARGF for free support and counselling (for you and your family).
– They can help to voluntarily exclude you from physical and online gambling sites. You can also block online gambling sites from your side. This way, if you have a weak moment, you won’t have access to the sites (usually for six months).
– SARGF, which is financed by the gambling industry, has helped over 18 500 people and can advise on coping strategies, therapy options and support groups. Getting help can start with a simple phone call:
SA Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF)
Free 24/7 helpline: 0800 006 008
https://responsiblegambling.org.za/
Gamblers Anonymous SA (holds group meetings similar to Alcoholics Anonymous)
IT’S EASY TO GET HOOKED
Problem gambling typically starts on slot machines because they are high-intensity, easy to use and readily available on a casino floor, according to SARGF. South Africa currently has 38 licensed casinos, and slot machines earn 76% of their revenue.
Casinos make gambling pleasurable – some are open 24/7 and offer free drinks, food and even childcare – so gamblers lose track of time. The more time you spend in a casino, the more likely you will be drawn to the high-stakes games like roulette and poker.
Online gambling is growing too. It’s available anywhere, anytime. According to Old Mutual, 30% of working South Africans gamble online (casino, Lotto, betting) at least once a week. Sports betting is on the rise and more popular than lottery games, says the National Gambling Board.
IT'S A PROBLEM IF...
...you answer ‘yes’ to any of these:
- Have you ever lied about gambling?
- When you lose money, do you continue gambling to win it back?
- Has your gambling caused issues with your family, friends or work?
- Have you ever tried to stop or walk away but couldn’t?
- Have you ever borrowed (or stolen) money to gamble?
- Do you feel guilty, sad or hopeless about your gambling?
For couples married in community of property, the gambler’s debt will become their spouse’s debt too, so if you spot any worrisome signs in your partner, seek professional help to prevent the problem from spiralling out of control – for both of you.
GET HELP!
Gambling addiction can be treated if you truly want to stop. Start by calling SARGF for free support and counselling (for you and your family).
– They can help to voluntarily exclude you from physical and online gambling sites. You can also block online gambling sites from your side. This way, if you have a weak moment, you won’t have access to the sites (usually for six months).
– SARGF, which is financed by the gambling industry, has helped over 18 500 people and can advise on coping strategies, therapy options and support groups. Getting help can start with a simple phone call:
SA Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF)
Free 24/7 helpline: 0800 006 008
https://responsiblegambling.org.za/
Gamblers Anonymous SA (holds group meetings similar to Alcoholics Anonymous)
Gauteng: 0606247140 or 0713772746
KZN: 0312096359
Western Cape: 0748374001
KZN: 0312096359
Western Cape: 0748374001
Words by: Silke Colquhoun
Illustrations: Gallo/Getty images, Freepik
Illustrations: Gallo/Getty images, Freepik
STOPPING A GAMBLING ADDICTION
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
July 11, 2024
Rating:
Reviewed by Amaarah
on
July 11, 2024
Rating:
