Problem Gambling Warning Signs
How to recognise problem gambling in yourself or someone close to you. Written for both bettors and family members.
Warning signs in yourself
Financial signs
- Spending more than budgeted on betting
- Borrowing money to fund betting
- Selling possessions to fund betting
- Unable to pay bills due to gambling losses
- Taking out loans or credit to gamble
Behavioural signs
- Chasing losses - betting more to recover what was lost
- Spending increasing amounts of time betting
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop betting
- Neglecting work, study or family obligations
- Hiding betting activity from others
Emotional signs
- Restlessness or irritability when not betting
- Using betting to escape stress or anxiety
- Mood dependent on wins or losses
- Preoccupation with betting (thinking about past or future bets)
- Feelings of guilt or shame about gambling
Warning signs in someone you know
- Unexplained financial difficulties or requests for loans
- Secrecy about finances or time spent online
- Mood swings - elated after winning, severely depressed after losing
- Withdrawal from social activities and family
- Missing work or school without explanation
- Finding evidence of multiple betting accounts or unpaid gambling debts
The PGSI self-assessment
The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) is a validated nine-item questionnaire. For a formal assessment, call the SA Responsible Gambling Foundation on 0800 006 008. A simple self-check: if you have answered yes to three or more of the warning signs above, speaking with a counsellor is worthwhile and confidential.
What to do now
If it's you
- Call 0800 006 008 - free, confidential, 24/7
- Set deposit limits at your bookmakers immediately
- Tell one person you trust
- Consider self-exclusion - see our self-exclusion guide
- Book a free counselling session through SARGF
If it's someone close to you
- Call 0800 006 008 for advice on how to help
- Approach the conversation with empathy, not anger
- Do not cover debts as this enables continued gambling
- Contact FAMSA South Africa for family support
- Look after your own mental health too
Frequently asked questions
A helpful starting point is the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a nine-item questionnaire used internationally. Key questions include: Have you bet more than you could afford to lose? Have you needed to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement? The SA Responsible Gambling Foundation (0800 006 008) can administer a formal assessment.
Yes. Problem gambling (also called gambling disorder) is recognised as a behavioural addiction in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and the ICD-11. It involves persistent, maladaptive gambling behaviour that causes significant distress and impairment. It is treatable through cognitive behavioural therapy and peer support.
Yes. Problem gambling can develop gradually. Many people begin as recreational bettors before their pattern of play changes. The transition from recreational to problematic can happen over months or years. Regular self-checks and budgeting help recreational bettors stay in control.
The SA Responsible Gambling Foundation helpline (0800 006 008) is available for family members, not just the person with the problem. Counsellors can advise on how to approach the conversation, what language to use and where specialist help is available. Avoid ultimatums - empathy and consistency are more effective.
Yes. The National Responsible Gambling Programme funds outpatient counselling through SARGF-registered therapists across South Africa. Referrals can be made through the helpline. Some hospital groups also provide inpatient treatment for severe cases.