Gambling addiction has reached alarming levels in South Africa, with mounting debt and mental health challenges pushing some people to the brink of suicide.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF), which promotes responsible gambling and provides support to those affected by gambling-related harm, has reported that some people gamble away their money until they are left penniless on payday, struggling to repay debts incurred through the habit.
More than 1300 people have sought help from the organisation after experiencing severe gambling-related distress, with some contemplating suicide because of the financial and emotional toll.
The foundation’s latest report identified 1345 people experiencing high levels of distress…