At Goldrush Scottburgh, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling as part of creating a safe and enjoyable environment for our players. Responsible gambling is about engaging in gambling activities without placing yourself or others at risk of harm. It ensures that gambling remains a form of entertainment rather than causing financial, emotional, or social challenges.
What Is Responsible Gambling?
- Only spending what you can afford.
- Setting limits for both time and money before you start playing.
- Understanding that gambling is not a solution to financial or personal problems.
- Avoiding gambling when angry, upset, or stressed.
- Ensuring that gambling does not interfere with personal relationships or responsibilities.
For most people, gambling is an enjoyable pastime, but for some, it can lead to harm. Common challenges include financial difficulties, strained relationships, and mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression. These impacts can vary between individuals and may arise at different stages of life.
Recognising Gambling-Related Harm
Gambling-related harm can affect individuals and their families in various ways. Some of the key indicators of harm include:
- Financial distress: Borrowing money or using essential funds to gamble.
- Emotional stress: Anxiety, depression, or feelings of guilt linked to gambling.
- Relationship issues: Strained or broken relationships with family or friends.
- Social isolation: Feeling ashamed or too embarrassed to talk about gambling behaviour.
How to Stay in Control
To help you gamble responsibly, follow these tips:
- Set Spending Limits: Decide how much money you are comfortable losing before you begin.
- Set Time Limits: Take regular breaks and ensure gambling does not consume your free time.
- Understand the Risks: Gambling should be seen as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
- Avoid Emotional Gambling: Don’t gamble when you are angry, upset, or under stress.
- Know When to Stop: If gambling is no longer enjoyable, take a break or seek help.
Help Is Available
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related harm, support is available. The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) offers free and confidential assistance 24/7. You can contact their toll-free helpline on 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp HELP to 076 675 0710.
The helpline is available for anyone impacted by gambling, including friends and family members. It provides access to counselling, self-help tools, and referrals to professional services.
Tools to Help You Stay Safe
At Goldrush Scottburgh, we encourage our patrons to use the following tools to manage their gambling habits:
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break by temporarily suspending your account.
- Time-Outs: Set specific time periods where you avoid gambling altogether.
- Deposit Limits: Limit the amount of money you can deposit within a set timeframe.
- Self-Assessment Quizzes: Evaluate your gambling habits to understand their impact on your life.
These tools are designed to help you maintain control and enjoy gambling as a form of recreation.
Why Conversations About Gambling Matter
One of the most significant challenges of gambling harm is the sense of isolation it can cause. Many people feel too ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggles, which can make the problem worse. Having open and honest conversations about gambling—whether with friends, family, or professionals—can be the first step toward recovery.
Play Responsibly
At Goldrush Scottburgh, we strive to ensure that gambling remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all. By following responsible gambling practices and using the resources available, you can keep gambling fun and avoid harm.
If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation. Take the first step today—support is just a call or message away.