Knowledge Hub
Understand gambling, recognise the risks, and find tools to help you or someone you care about.
What you need to know
Gambling can be enjoyable, but it carries risks. Understanding how gambling works can help you make informed decisions.
What Is Gambling?
Gambling means risking money or something of value on an activity with an uncertain outcome, in the hope of winning. This includes betting, lotteries, casinos, and gaming machines.
The Risks
The odds always favour the operator. Over time, the more you gamble, the more likely you are to lose money. Problem gambling can lead to financial hardship, relationship breakdown, and mental health difficulties.
Getting Help
If gambling is causing harm, help is available. Self-exclusion, limits, counselling, and support groups can all make a difference. The first step is often the hardest — but it gets easier.
Tips for safer gambling
Set a budget before you start
Decide how much you can afford to lose and stick to it. Never gamble with money you need for bills or living expenses.
Set a time limit
Decide how long you'll gamble before you start. Use the time limit tools available on our platform.
Never chase your losses
If you've lost money, don't try to win it back by gambling more. Accept the loss and walk away.
Don't gamble when upset
Gambling when you're stressed, angry, or depressed is risky. These emotions can lead to poor decisions.
Take regular breaks
Step away from gambling regularly. Use the cooling-off feature for enforced breaks.
Talk to someone
If you're worried about your gambling, talk to someone you trust or contact our helpline.
Supporting someone else
If someone you care about is affected by gambling, these resources can help.
Recognise the Signs
Unexplained debt, secrecy, mood changes, missing money — these can be signs of problem gambling.
Start a Conversation
Choose a calm moment. Express concern without judgement. Listen and let them know help is available.
Third-Party Exclusion
Family members can submit a third-party exclusion application to the Gambling Authority if they believe someone is at risk.
For Young People
Gambling affects young people differently. This section is for anyone under 25 — or for parents, educators, and youth workers who want to help.
Know the Facts
Gambling is designed to be addictive. The house always wins over time. Understanding how gambling products are engineered can help young people make better choices.
Warning Signs
Gambling harm in young people can look like mood swings, secretive behaviour, missing money, or skipping school. Recognising the signs early makes a real difference.
For Parents & Educators
Practical guides for having conversations with young people about gambling. Includes tips for schools, youth clubs, and community groups.
Gambling Age Limit in Botswana
The legal gambling age in Botswana is 21 years. It is illegal for any licensed operator to allow under-21s to gamble. If you see this happening, report it to the Gambling Authority.
Report a ConcernTalk to Someone
Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, talking helps. Our counsellors are confidential, non-judgmental, and free. You do not need to be 21 to call us.
Call Toll-FreeHelpful organisations
These organisations provide additional information, tools, and support for people affected by gambling.