GAMBLING ADDICTION IS NOT SELECTIVE. IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU.

Help is available.

Help is available. If you think you or someone you know may have a problem, contact the National Responsible Gambling Helpline toll-free on 0800 006 008. Additional resources, including self help information can be found at http://www.responsiblegambling.co.za

The National Responsible Gambling Programme researches and monitors problem gambling, educates the public about problem gambling and provides treatment for problem gamblers.

The information given below is sourced from the National Responsible Gambling Programme and available at http://www.responsiblegambling.co.za

A problem gambler, as understood by the NRGP, is anyone who spends so much money and/or time gambling that they do significant harm to themselves or to others.

Typically excessive gambling causes them problems at home or at work and is threatening their financial security. To finance their gambling they borrow money which they cannot easily pay back and they spend money on gambling which should be spent on personal and household necessities.

Common symptoms include missing work to gamble, after a big win or loss a strong urge to return to win more or cover losses, gambling until all your money is gone or borrowing to fund your gambling and considering suicide as a result of gambling.

Out patient treatment for problem gambling is available in 56 South African cities and towns, free of charge and in 8 official languages. In severe cases the NRGP will consider subsidising in patient treatment.