DEDICATED TO CONSTRUCTIVE GAMBLING PRACTICES
This space is devoted to addressing issues related to problem gambling and offers links to valuable resources for those facing such circumstances.
DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH PROBLEM GAMBLING?
A problem gambler is typically someone who persists in gambling despite any adverse effects it might cause in their life. This condition, also known as Compulsive Gambling or Gambling Disorder, is defined by an unmanageable urge to gamble, regardless of the repercussions on one’s life.
Often, despite suffering significant consequences due to continuous gambling, the individual tends not to cease their gambling activities. Problem gamblers frequently confront financial hurdles, including unmanageable debt.
INDICATORS OF PROBLEM GAMBLING
Deception
Those struggling with gambling issues often try to conceal it from their close ones. They begin deceiving their partners, family members, colleagues, and friends.
Pursuing Losses
Some gamblers rationalize their gambling as an effort to recover their lost funds. They often believe that once they hit the jackpot, they will quit or that their losses are a result of a changed strategy or lack of luck. But chasing losses tends to compound their losses and often leads to additional debts.
Acquiring Loans
How do chronic gamblers cope when gambling drives them into a financial crisis? They borrow—from family, friends, coworkers, or even strangers, not always revealing the actual reason for their need. They might also rely on others to cover their gambling debts. They may reach their credit card limits or resort to a second mortgage.
Constantly Raising Bets
Much like individuals with drug or alcohol problems, problem gamblers need to increase their “dose” of gambling to derive pleasure from it. They feel compelled to bet increasingly larger amounts to achieve the thrill they seek. Unfortunately, the more they stake, the more they tend to lose.
Obsession with Gambling
In such scenarios, gamblers constantly think about their past gambling experiences and their next opportunity to gamble. They find any reason to gamble and will attempt any method to procure the money they require.
Inability to Quit Gambling
Many gamblers recognize their excessive gambling and express a desire to stop. They make multiple attempts but cannot resist the urge to play.
Gambling Out of Necessity
Some gamblers experience “psychological withdrawal symptoms” when attempting to reduce or stop gambling. Similar to those dealing with drug or alcohol issues, they become irritable, impatient, agitated, or anxious if they don’t get their “dose” of gambling.
Gambling as a Coping Mechanism
Such gamblers engage in gambling as a means to distract themselves, forget their troubles, and alleviate stress. The activity transcends mere entertainment; it becomes a mechanism to feel better and escape problems. However, the gambling itself often leads to additional issues.
Engaging in Illegal Activities for Gambling
Regardless of their losses, problem gamblers persist in their activity, worsening their financial situation. Borrowing from family, friends, and coworkers eventually proves insufficient. To finance their habit and attempt to resolve their issues by hitting the jackpot, they resort to misconduct and crime.
Gambling as a Priority
Gamblers can become so engrossed in the activity and the hope of recouping their losses that they spiral into deeper financial, social, and professional difficulties. Gradually, everything in their lives begins to center around and get influenced by gambling. This jeopardizes their families, friendships, academics, jobs, and potential career opportunities.
ASSISTANCE AND TOOLS FOR PROBLEM GAMBLERS
There are various tools and resources available to aid problem gamblers. These offer support, counseling, and a platform for discussing addiction.
South African Responsible Gambling Foundation
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) offers complimentary and confidential therapy and counselling services to individuals impacted by Problem Gambling and their immediate family members. Over the past 18 years, the SARGF has provided treatment to over 18,500 individuals. Additionally, they conduct educational initiatives to inform South Africans about the potential adverse impacts of problem gambling and the importance of gambling responsibly.
Website: https://responsiblegambling.org.za/
Email: helpline@responsiblegambling.org.za
Telephone: 0800 006 008
Whatsapp / SMS: 076 675 0710
Gamblers Anonymous South Africa
GASA, a South African organization, is dedicated to assisting individuals in dealing with and overcoming issues related to gambling. With operations in major South African cities including KZN, Cape Town, and Gauteng, they provide accessible support across the region. GASA conducts weekly meetings and extends help to anyone expressing a wish to quit gambling, without any prerequisites related to religious beliefs or otherwise. The organization makes no impositions on those who approach them for assistance.
Website: https://gamblersanonymous.org.za/
Email: info@gamblersanonymous.org.za
Telephone:
Gauteng: 060 624 7140
KZN: 083 783 5715
W. Cape: 079 368 4477