⚠️ Gambling is not a way to make money. The house always has a mathematical advantage. Most players will lose more money than they win over time. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Understanding the House Edge
All casino games are designed with a mathematical advantage in favour of the casino — this is called the "house edge". This means that over a large number of plays, the casino will always profit. While individual players can and do win — sometimes significantly — the odds are always weighted against the player in the long run.
For example, a slot machine with a 96% RTP (Return to Player) returns R96 for every R100 wagered on average, over many thousands of spins. However, this average is calculated over an enormous number of spins and does not predict any individual session's outcome.
Types of Gambling Risks
Financial Risks
Loss of money, debt accumulation, inability to meet financial obligations, borrowing to fund gambling.
Psychological Risks
Addiction, anxiety, depression, difficulty stopping gambling despite wanting to, emotional distress.
Social Risks
Relationship breakdowns, isolation, dishonesty with loved ones, loss of employment due to gambling behaviour.
Health Risks
Sleep disruption, stress-related health problems, neglect of physical health, and associated mental health conditions.
The Risk of Addiction
Gambling addiction, also known as Gambling Disorder or Pathological Gambling, is a recognised clinical condition. Like other addictions, it involves a loss of control over the behaviour despite negative consequences.
Risk factors for developing a gambling problem include:
- Family history of addiction or mental health disorders
- High levels of stress, anxiety, or depression
- Early big win experiences
- Sensation-seeking personality traits
- Social influences and peer gambling behaviour
- Easy access to gambling — including online platforms
Myths About Gambling
Many dangerous misconceptions lead people to gamble unsafely:
- Myth: "I'm due for a win" (Gambler's Fallacy) — Each spin, hand, or roll is independent. Past results have no influence on future outcomes.
- Myth: "I can win back my losses by playing more" — Chasing losses almost always results in bigger losses.
- Myth: "Gambling is a way to make money" — Gambling is entertainment. The house edge ensures operators profit over time.
- Myth: "I can control when I win" — Outcomes are determined by random number generators. No skill, system, or strategy can guarantee a win.
🆘 Getting Help
If you or someone you know is affected by problem gambling, free confidential help is available 24/7 from the National Responsible Gambling Programme.
Toll-free · South African helpline · Available 24/7