South African psychiatrists are raising concerns about a sharp rise in online gambling addiction, warning that the trend is fueling a growing mental health burden across the country. The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) issued the alert after new national data showed an unprecedented spike in help-seeking behavior.
The National Responsible Gambling Programme reported a 623% jump in calls to its toll-free helpline—rising from 140,000 to more than one million in a single year. The escalation coincides with South Africa’s Responsible Gambling Month, observed each November.
According to SASOP representative Dr. Mahlatse Thosago, the helpline data reflects the complex mix of psychological, financial, and social pressures linked to gambling addiction. Forty percent of callers said they could not stop gambling without professional support. Thirty-two percent reported financial strain, 13% faced legal challenges, and 14% were receiving treatment for other mental health conditions. An additional 11% disclosed alcohol misuse, while 6% reported using illicit drugs.
Advances in mobile technology and broader internet access have rapidly expanded online sports betting in South Africa. The National Gambling Board estimates gross gambling revenue reached R75 billion (€3.95 billion) in the 2024/25 financial year, with online betting responsible for roughly 60% of the total. Some industry analyses place the total turnover at R1.5 trillion (€79 billion) wagered during the same period.
Mental health experts and advocates warn that the economic boom masks significant social consequences, including addiction risk, debt accumulation, and psychological distress—particularly in vulnerable communities. The issue reached Parliament in October 2025, where Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana urged tighter advertising controls and described national gambling trends as “a public-health crisis.”
SASOP member Dr. Thabo Mokhotlane told SABC News that although the government has begun addressing the problem, regulatory and public-education efforts remain insufficient. He emphasized the importance of early recognition of warning signs such as chasing losses, irritability, excessive spending, and increasing concern from family or friends.
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