Whilst the majority of people do gamble safely and responsibly, for some, gaming can become a problem. When gaming, always remember the following

• Gaming should be entertaining and fun and not seen as a way of making money
• Only spend what you can afford to lose
• Avoid chasing losses
• Keep track of the time and amount you spend gaming

If you are concerned about your gaming, then honestly answering the questions below may give you an idea of whether your gaming is problematic:

• Do you stay away from work, college or school to game?
• Do you game to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
• When gaming and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and need to participate in gaming again as soon as possible?
• Do you game until your last penny is gone, even the fare home or the cost of a cup of tea?
• Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time you have spent gaming?
• Have others ever criticised your gaming?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends or hobbies?
• Do arguments, frustrations or disappointments make you want to game?
• Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gaming?

The more you answer 'yes' to these questions, the more likely you are to cause yourself gaming related harm.

If you are concerned about your gaming, why not take an independent and anonymous survey to help you understand more? You can take the self-assessment provided by South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF).

This page was last reviewed and updated: November 2025