Online gambling: What you need to know before you roll the dice

Published on 23rd June, 2025 at 04:04 pm

Online gambling is becoming increasingly popular among South Africans. It can, however, lead to serious financial issues. Here’s why, and how to tell if it’s becoming a problem.

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In this article, you’ll learn:

• That online gambling is on the rise in South Africa and can cause financial issues.
• It might seem innocent, but it is actually an addiction that can be difficult to overcome.
• There are resources available, and alternative hobbies to help you break this habit.

Gambling is becoming increasingly popular in South Africa, with the industry seeing R1.1 trillion worth of wagers in the 2023 – 2024 period, according to the National Gambling Board. This is an increase of over 40% from the previous year. Much of this gambling – including betting games, in-app purchases and sports gambling – are done on apps.

The allure of online gambling

The reason it is enjoyed by so many is that it acts as a form of escapism. It also provides players with a hit of dopamine – the neurotransmitter typically associated with pleasurable experiences and motivation – something which can lead to compulsive behaviour. “Online gambling is addictive because it alters our brain’s reward system,” explains Counselling Psychologist, Dayna Smith. “The unpredictable nature of wins keeps people chasing the next payoff.”

It’s not just about winning, though. “Many people use gambling to manage stress or boredom, which can quickly turn a coping strategy into an addiction,” says Smith. “These platforms are designed to create a seamless, immersive experience where time, money and self-control can quickly slip away. This can have serious psychological, emotional and financial consequences.”

Signs of addiction

How can you tell if your online gambling is responsible or has become problematic? It comes down to how much it’s interfering with or impairing your functioning in various areas of your life. Here are some telltale signs.

• It has become a preoccupation that is constantly on your mind.
• You feel out of control despite attempts to stop or cut back.
• You find yourself being secretive or lying about your usage.
• You’re neglecting or struggling to maintain your responsibilities.

“Many individuals experience shame, anxiety and depression as they struggle to control their behaviour, often in isolation,” explains Smith. “The financial losses can be severe and lead to debt, strained relationships and even job loss, creating a cycle of stress that reinforces the addiction.”

Breaking the cycle

For those who are struggling with online gambling addiction, there are several resources available.

• The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) offers free treatment and support to people who want to break this destructive cycle.
• Recovery Direct also provides information on how people can get the help they need to quit.

For people who want to participate in online gambling in a healthy way, it should be understood that it is a form of entertainment rather than a source of income. Some other ways to prevent it from becoming a problem are to take regular breaks, understand the odds and set limits on how much you’ll bet. It’s also important to balance gambling with other dopamine-inducing activities, such as exercise or social interactions, so that it doesn’t take over your life and result in a financial crisis.