Men and gambling

Gambling can start as entertainment or a way to unwind, but for some men it quietly becomes something else - a way of coping, escaping, or chasing a sense of control.

What it is

Problem gambling is when gambling starts to negatively affect someone's finances, relationships, work or mental health, often despite repeated attempts to stop or cut back. Men are statistically more likely than women to develop gambling problems, and it's frequently linked to the same pressures that drive other coping behaviours - stress, financial strain, or difficulty expressing emotion in other ways. Because gambling can be done privately and often carries less visible stigma than other struggles, it can go unnoticed for a long time.

Signs to notice

• Gambling to escape stress, boredom or difficult feelings.
• Chasing losses with bigger bets to try to win money back.
• Lying to family or friends about how much time or money is spent gambling.
• Borrowing money, or using money meant for essentials, to gamble.
• Irritability or restlessness when trying to cut back.
• Neglecting work, relationships or responsibilities because of gambling.

What helps

• Notice the trigger, not just the bet. Ask what mood or situation usually comes right before you gamble.
• Limit access. Self-exclusion programmes, blocking gambling apps and sites, or handing over financial control temporarily can create real barriers.
• Involve someone you trust. Being honest with a partner or friend about the extent of it reduces the secrecy that gambling problems tend to thrive in.
• Address the underlying stress. Gambling is often standing in for something else - financial pressure, loneliness, or a need for excitement - worth exploring directly.
• Track spending honestly. Seeing the real numbers, rather than an estimate, often shifts motivation to change.
• Use free national support. The National Responsible Gambling Programme offers confidential counselling and a treatment programme at no cost.

When to reach out for help

Reach out if gambling is affecting your finances, relationships or work, if you've tried to stop or cut back without success, or if you're gambling to cope with stress or emotion rather than for occasional entertainment. A professional can assess what's happening and support you in stopping.

Getting help in South Africa

• National Responsible Gambling Programme: 0800 006 008, for free, confidential counselling and treatment.
• SADAG Mental Health Line: 011 234 4837.
• SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393.
• Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors can support you confidentially alongside specialised gambling treatment services.