Responsible Gambling
— by PlaySavvy Editorial Team
PlaySavvy.co.za is committed to promoting responsible gambling. While we provide information and reviews about online casinos, we believe it is essential that all gambling is done responsibly, within your means, and for entertainment purposes only.
Gambling Should Be Fun
Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. The odds are always in favour of the house. If gambling stops being fun, it's time to stop.
Know the Warning Signs
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Watch for these signs:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
- Chasing losses β gambling more to try to win back money you've lost
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when not gambling
- Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Being unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
Tips for Responsible Gambling
- Set a budget: Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start, and stick to it.
- Set time limits: Don't let gambling sessions go on indefinitely.
- Never chase losses: Accept that losing is part of gambling. Walk away.
- Don't gamble when upset: Emotional decisions lead to poor choices.
- Take regular breaks: Step away from the screen frequently.
- Don't gamble with borrowed money: Only use disposable income.
- Balance gambling with other activities: It should not be your only leisure activity.
Self-Exclusion Tools
Most licensed online casinos offer self-exclusion tools that allow you to:
- Set deposit limits (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Set session time limits
- Take a cooling-off period (temporary self-exclusion)
- Permanently self-exclude from the platform
- Set reality check reminders
Contact your casino's customer support to activate these features.
Get Help Now
If gambling is causing you or someone you know financial, emotional, or social harm, please reach out for help. These services are free and confidential:
National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP)
0800 006 008
Free, confidential, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Counselling, treatment referrals, and support for problem gamblers and their families.
Additional Support
- Gamblers Anonymous South Africa: www.gamblerssouthafrica.co.za
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 21 22 23
- South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA): 086 14 SANCA (72622)
- LifeLine South Africa: 0861 322 322
Our Commitment
PlaySavvy.co.za is committed to:
- Displaying responsible gambling messaging on every page of our website
- Providing the NRGP helpline number in our footer on every page
- Never targeting minors in our content or advertising
- Never presenting gambling as a solution to financial problems
- Never making claims of guaranteed winnings
- Promoting only casinos that offer responsible gambling tools
- Clearly labelling all affiliate relationships
Remember: You must be 18 or older to gamble. If gambling isn't fun anymore, it's time to stop.
PlaySavvy.co.za β Independent Casino Comparison & Review
We are not a gambling operator. We do not hold a gambling licence.
18+ | Gamble Responsibly | NRGP: 0800 006 008