Understanding Problem Gambling
Understanding Problem Gambling: Signs, Risks, and Where to Find Help
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Understand gambling, recognise the risks, and find tools to help you or someone you care about.
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Understanding Gambling
What you need to know
Gambling can be enjoyable, but it carries risks. Understanding how gambling works can help you make informed decisions.
Read the full guide →What is Gambling?
Gambling means risking money or something of value on an activity with an uncertain outcome — including betting, lotteries, casinos, and gaming machines.
The Risks
The odds favour the operator over time. Problem gambling can lead to financial hardship, relationship breakdown, and mental health difficulties.
01
How to Set Healthy Gambling Limits
Practical steps for setting deposit, time, and loss limits.
02
Set a clear money budget before playing
Never gamble with money you need for bills or essentials. Decide your limit in advance and stick to it.
03
Set a time limit
Decide how long you will gamble before you start, and use session reminders to stay on track.
04
Never chase your losses
If you have lost, do not try to win it back by gambling more. Accept the loss and walk away.
05
Take regular breaks
Stepping away helps you maintain perspective and stay in control of your play.
06
Avoid play when feeling stressed or emotional
Gambling is not a way to cope with problems. Use the self-assessment tool if you are unsure about your habits.
Family & Friends
Supporting Someone Else
If someone you care about is affected by gambling, these resources can help.
Read the full guide →Step 1
Supporting a Loved One with a Gambling Problem
How family and friends can help without judgment.
Step 2
Recognise the Signs
Changes in mood, secrecy about finances, or disrupted sleep can be signs of problem gambling in someone you care about.
Step 3
Start a Conversation
Choose a calm moment, express concern without judgment, and listen — help is available when they are ready.
Youth Corner
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.
Visit the Youth Corner →Know the Facts
The house always wins over time. Understanding how gambling products work helps young people make better choices.
Warning Signs
Changes in behaviour, school performance, mood swings, or missing money can indicate gambling harm in young people.
For Parents & Educators
Have open conversations about gambling in schools, youth clubs, and at home — early guidance makes a difference.
Gambling Age Limit in Botswana — 18+ Only
The legal gambling age in Botswana is 18 years. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. If you suspect underage participation, report it to the Gambling Authority immediately.
Report a ConcernTalk to Someone
Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, talking helps. Our support line is completely anonymous, confidential and free. You do not need to be in crisis.
Call 19777
Watch & Learn
Video Resources
Educational videos to help you understand gambling risks, recognise warning signs, and find support.
Browse all videos →Understanding Problem Gambling
Learn to recognise the signs of problem gambling and understand when recreational play becomes harmful.
How to Support a Loved One
Practical guidance for family members and friends on how to start conversations and offer constructive support.
Youth & Gambling: Know the Facts
Age-appropriate information for young people, parents, and educators about gambling risks and early intervention.
Publications & Research
Publications & Research
Published research, policy papers, and resources from the Gambling Authority of Botswana's responsible gambling programme.
View all publications →PDF
Publication
Responsible Gambling Annual Report 2024/25
Comprehensive overview of national gambling harm prevention initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and official self-exclusion metrics compiled during the fiscal year.
Download →PDF
Publication
Gambling Prevalence Study — Botswana 2024
A comprehensive national survey tracking demographic participation, risk markers, and early problem-gambling behaviours across urban and rural municipalities.
Download →PDF
Publication
National Responsible Gambling Framework
Official public health framework and regulatory directives outlining national safety targets, operator training parameters, and direct self-exclusion protocols.
Download →PDF
Publication
Clinical Guidelines for Problem Gambling
A formal handbook designed for professional clinical staff detailing screening models, localised trauma-informed care matrices, and immediate hotline referral schemes.
Download →
Support Services
Where to Get Help
Free, confidential Gambling Authority services for people affected by gambling harm in Botswana.
National Helpline — Call 19777
Free, confidential support 24/7 from the Gambling Authority of Botswana.
/support/Local Counselling Services
Find Motshameko o Phepa counselling and support providers near you.
/local-counseling/National Self-Exclusion Programme
Protect yourself with a legally binding exclusion from licensed gambling venues and operators.
/self-exclusion/Contact the Gambling Authority
Reach the Gambling Authority of Botswana for enquiries, referrals, and general support.
/contact/We're here to help — confidential support available 24/7
No judgment, absolute privacy. Speak with a live support executive today to find your pathway to recovery.