Quick answer: Free, confidential help for a gambling problem is available in Gauteng through the National Responsible Gambling Programme on 0800 006 008, which offers counselling for gamblers and their families. People with a severe gambling addiction, or gambling together with depression, alcohol or drug use, may need an outpatient or inpatient rehab programme.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
What are the signs of a gambling addiction?
- thinking about gambling most of the time and planning the day around it
- spending more money or time on gambling than you can afford
- growing debt and unpaid bills
- betting more to win back losses
- lying to family or friends about gambling
- borrowing, selling belongings or taking money to gamble
- relationships and work suffering
- feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
Several of these together point to a gambling problem that needs help, whether the gambling happens at a casino, on slot machines or on a betting app.
Where can I get free help for gambling in Gauteng?
- National Responsible Gambling Programme: call 0800 006 008, toll-free. It offers free, confidential counselling for people with a gambling problem and for their families.
- Gamblers Anonymous: free support-group meetings in Gauteng and online.
- Your doctor or a psychologist: for depression, anxiety or thoughts of self-harm linked to gambling losses.
What is self-exclusion and how does it work?
Self-exclusion is a formal request to be banned from gambling. You ask your gambling operator to exclude you, and the operator sends the forms to the provincial licensing authority and the National Gambling Board. During the exclusion period you can get free counselling through the National Responsible Gambling Programme. If you bet online, ask each betting site you use to exclude you and close your account.
When does gambling addiction need rehab?
Counselling as an outpatient is enough for many people. A structured outpatient or inpatient programme is worth considering when:
- counselling and self-exclusion have not stopped the gambling
- the person also has a drinking or drug problem
- there is severe depression or talk of suicide
- debts and losses have reached crisis point
- home has become unsafe or unstable because of the gambling
What does treatment for gambling addiction involve?
There is no detox for gambling. Treatment is built on counselling:
- cognitive behavioural therapy to change the thinking that drives gambling
- handling urges and avoiding triggers
- a plan for money and debt
- treatment for depression, anxiety or substance use where present
- family sessions to rebuild trust
- support-group meetings and aftercare
Read more about process addiction rehab in Gauteng.
Does medical aid cover gambling rehab?
Not automatically. The guaranteed 21-day rehabilitation benefit applies to alcohol and drug dependence. Cover for gambling treatment depends on your scheme, your plan and the diagnosis, so phone your scheme before admission and ask for the answer in writing. Outpatient programmes cost less than a residential stay if you are paying yourself.
How do I protect my money right now?
- Ask each betting site and casino to exclude you, and delete the apps.
- Give a person you trust temporary control of your bank cards and online banking.
- Ask your bank whether it can block gambling transactions.
- List every debt honestly and speak to a registered debt counsellor.
- Tell your partner or family. Secrecy keeps gambling going.
Frequently asked questions
Is gambling addiction a real addiction?
Yes. Gambling disorder is a recognised mental health condition. It affects the brain’s reward system in a similar way to alcohol and drugs.
Is the gambling helpline really free?
Yes. Calls to 0800 006 008 are toll-free, and the counselling offered through the National Responsible Gambling Programme is free and confidential.
Can family members get help too?
Yes. The National Responsible Gambling Programme offers counselling to family members affected by someone’s gambling.
How do I stop online betting?
Ask each betting site to exclude you and close your account, delete the apps, ask your bank about blocking gambling transactions and call 0800 006 008 for counselling.
How Rehab Bridge can help
Rehab Bridge is not a rehab centre. We listen to your situation, explain your options and connect you to rehab centres in Gauteng and Cape Town that fit your needs, budget and medical aid. Contact us, send us a WhatsApp or email info@rehabbridge.co.za.
This article is general information, not medical or financial advice. If you are thinking about suicide, call 112 or go to your nearest hospital now.