For many South Africans, placing a bet on a football match, trying an online casino or buying a lottery ticket may seem like harmless entertainment. But when gambling becomes a daily habit, the financial consequences can quickly extend beyond losing a few rands, leaving individuals and families struggling with debt, emotional distress and damaged relationships.
The growing impact of gambling addiction in South Africa is raising concern, with more people reportedly reaching a point where they can no longer manage the financial and emotional consequences of their gambling habits.
According to a report by the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), more than 1,300 people have sought help after experiencing severe gambling-related distress. The foundation identified 1,345 people who were experiencing high levels of distress and contemplating death because of their circumstances, highlighting the serious mental health consequences that can accompany gambling addiction.
Some individuals are gambling away their money until they have little or nothing left by payday, while struggling to repay money borrowed to continue betting.
SARGF chief executive Sibongile Simelane-Quntana said some people only seek assistance when their circumstances have reached a breaking point. In some cases, concerned family members have had to intervene after individuals experienced suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide linked to gambling-related problems.
One of the biggest dangers of gambling addiction is the belief that the next bet could recover everything that has already been lost. After experiencing a win, some gamblers become convinced that another big payout could change their financial circumstances. Instead of walking away, they continue betting, sometimes using money meant for groceries, transport, rent, school expenses and other household needs.
When their own money runs out, some turn to personal loans, credit facilities or informal moneylenders to keep gambling. This creates a cycle in which people are not only losing money through betting but also accumulating debt that becomes increasingly difficult to repay.
For households already dealing with the rising cost of living, this can place additional pressure on monthly budgets. Money that should cover essential expenses can disappear within hours, leaving families to manage unpaid accounts, missed payments and financial uncertainty.
Gambling addiction is also not limited to employed adults. University students and young people are increasingly exposed to online gambling platforms, where betting can take place through a smartphone at almost any time of the day. The convenience of mobile technology means that gambling is no longer restricted to physical betting shops or casinos.
Another concern is the relationship between gambling, alcohol and substance abuse. Simelane-Quntana said excessive gambling was sometimes associated with alcohol and drug use, with some individuals turning to these substances when trying to cope with the financial and emotional pressure caused by gambling losses.
Shame and fear of judgement can make the situation worse. People struggling with gambling addiction may hide their activities from partners, relatives and friends, particularly when they have borrowed money or used household funds without telling anyone. This secrecy can damage relationships and delay the moment when someone reaches out for assistance.
Meanwhile, the government has also been considering ways to address the growth of mobile gambling. During his mid-year budget speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana indicated that an additional tax on gambling through mobile technology was being considered as part of efforts to respond to the country’s high levels of gambling.
While regulation and taxation may form part of the broader response, awareness, early intervention and access to support remain important.
Gambling addiction is not simply a matter of poor money management or a lack of discipline. It can become a serious behavioural problem that affects a person’s finances, mental health and family life. Recognising the warning signs early can help prevent financial losses from becoming overwhelming.
Anyone who finds themselves repeatedly borrowing money to gamble, hiding betting activities, chasing losses or struggling to stop despite the consequences should consider reaching out for professional support. Families and friends can also play an important role by approaching the situation with understanding rather than judgement.
South Africans experiencing gambling-related problems can contact the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation’s National Responsible Gambling Programme on 0800 006 008 for confidential assistance in multiple languages.
Gamblers Anonymous South Africa also provides support on 060 624 7140 in Gauteng and 083 783 5717 in KwaZulu-Natal.
For anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or in immediate danger, urgent help should be sought through emergency services or the nearest hospital.
Ultimately, a bet should never come at the expense of someone’s financial security, relationships or wellbeing. Getting help early can make it possible to regain control before gambling-related debt becomes an even bigger burden.
