Players like to engage in the game of chance because it is unpredictable and entertaining. However, if you play these games with any sense of control, it might result in addiction, which can be quite challenging to overcome.
Many players are not aware of their compulsive gambling habit, which might lead to adverse consequences if not put under control. Therefore, you must detect the signs of gambling addiction early enough. This way, you will be able to seek help as soon as possible. One of the organizations established to help addicted gamblers is Gambler Anonymous. Since the inception of this organization, they have helped a lot of people to overcome gambling addiction.
Recognizing Gambling Addiction
Gambling addict is a person that lacks self-control as far as gambling activities are concerned whether online gambling or non South African-friendly casinos. Such individual jumps at every gambling opportunity regardless of its consequences. People addicted to gambling will always feel the impulse to gamble even though it is taking its toll on their finances and emotion. The first sign of gambling addiction is its devastating consequences on the social and financial life of the gambler. Gambling addiction does not have any physical effect, so it might be pretty hard to detect at an early stage.
Gamblers Anonymous: How Does It work?
Gambler Anonymous is an organization designed to assist those addicted to gambling, giving them access to professionals in these areas. Apart from that, they offer different types of approaches in solving gambling issues and organize meetings that are aimed at getting you back on track.
There are lots of methods that can be used to treat compulsive gambling. Gamblers Anonymous employs one of these methods, which is known as the Gambler Anonymous meeting. People feel uncomfortable discussing their problems, so GA has organized a friendly, cozy, and safe setting where people share their stories relating to their gambling addiction and recovery to motivate newcomers.
These meetings take place once a week. You might be relieved after your first session, but you need to keep attending the meetings for effective results.
Where to Find Help in South Africa?
In this section, we will be giving you the list of places you can visit for assistance on issues relating to gambling addiction. We have also included their contact details and brief information about each of them.
Gamblers Anonymous South Africa
A free fellowship of people who have stopped gambling. Meetings run in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria, and there is no fee and no register — you simply turn up. The twenty-question self-test used at meetings is the quickest way to see whether your play has become a problem.
National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP)
The counselling service funded by the industry and endorsed by the National Gambling Board. Free, confidential telephone counselling in all official languages, plus referral to a therapist in your province at no cost to you.
Toll-free counselling line: 0800 006 008
Website: responsiblegambling.org.za
SADAG — South African Depression and Anxiety Group
The right call when gambling sits alongside depression, anxiety or debt stress. Counsellors answer seven days a week.
Helpline: 0800 567 567 (SMS 31393 for a call back)
National Gambling Board and the provincial boards
Self-exclusion in South Africa is handled under the National Gambling Act 7 of 2004. You apply to the provincial licensing authority where you play, and licensed venues and sites are then obliged to refuse you. It does not reach offshore sites — for those use blocking software on the device itself.
Conclusion
You must seek help immediately if you notice any sign of compulsive gambling. You can consult any of the above organizations for a lasting solution to gambling addiction.