Latest news with #SARGF
The Star
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
Breaking the silence with an online support group for gambling addiction
As gambling addiction tightens its grip on individuals and families across South Africa, the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation ( SARGF) is responding with a pioneering digital support programme aimed at breaking the cycle of isolation and stigma. In its first year, the National Responsible Gambling Programme's ( NRGP) online support group has helped more than 400 people find their footing on the road to recovery - offering a rare sense of community in a space often marked by secrecy and shame. This initiative draws on the Ubuntu philosophy – 'I am because we are' – to dismantle barriers of isolation and foster a sustainable ecosystem of peer-driven recovery. As a condition increasingly recognised as a mental health disorder, it is detailed that problem gambling often leads individuals into debilitating cycles of shame, grief, and isolation, adversely affecting not just themselves but their families and communities. The foundation shares with Saturday Star that its approach is designed to dismantle these barriers, creating a safe, judgement-free space for individuals to openly share their struggles and collaboratively navigate the difficult path to recovery. Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, Executive Director of SARGF, emphasises the role of this support group, stating, 'Our support group is more than a resource; it's a lifeline. By embracing Ubuntu, we remind participants that healing thrives in community. The courage to say, 'I need help,' is met with immediate support from peers who truly understand, proving that solidarity can achieve what therapy alone often cannot.' To make it easier for people to get help no matter where they are, the group uses WhatsApp to chat in real time and holds online meetings every Saturday on Microsoft Teams . These virtual sessions are designed to build an interconnected community, characterised by shared stories, effective coping strategies, and accountability checks. Participants laud the platform's 24/7 availability as critical in resisting urges: 'At 2 am, when guilt and anxiety tighten their grip, there's always someone to pull me back from the edge. Knowing I'm not alone makes the impossible feel possible,' says Simelane-Quntana. The NRGP model also aligns with legally mandated recovery pathways outlined in South Africa's National Gambling Act of 2004. This includes measures such as voluntary self-exclusion, enabling individuals to block their gambling access for a minimum of six months while committing to counselling; in the financial year 2024/2025, 4 166 referrals were managed, with 902 specifically for self-exclusions. Another approach, third-party exclusion, allows family members or dependants to petition the courts for gambling restrictions on individuals struggling with addiction. While some people were initially hesitant to join due to stigma and anxiety, the group's anonymous nature has helped more individuals feel safe enough to reach out. Many members have since shared positive progress, staying away from gambling for six months or more as they focus on healing relationships and improving their finances. The SARGF says it plans to broaden access through regional support hubs and strategic partnerships with local leaders. 'Relapse prevention requires innovation. Our vision is a nationwide web of support rooted in shared humanity where every individual can reclaim their future.' With an unwavering commitment to empowering lives, the SARGF is redefining the landscape of recovery, proving that together, healing and support can illuminate even the darkest of paths.' Saturday Star [email protected]
IOL News
21-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Breaking the silence with an online support group for gambling addiction
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) has revealed a landmark success in its National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), announcing that over 400 individuals have benefitted from its innovative online support group in its first year. The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) has revealed a landmark success in its National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), announcing that over 400 individuals have benefitted from its innovative online support group in its first year. As gambling addiction tightens its grip on individuals and families across South Africa, the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) is responding with a pioneering digital support programme aimed at breaking the cycle of isolation and stigma. In its first year, the National Responsible Gambling Programme's (NRGP) online support group has helped more than 400 people find their footing on the road to recovery - offering a rare sense of community in a space often marked by secrecy and shame. This initiative draws on the Ubuntu philosophy – 'I am because we are' – to dismantle barriers of isolation and foster a sustainable ecosystem of peer-driven recovery. As a condition increasingly recognised as a mental health disorder, it is detailed that problem gambling often leads individuals into debilitating cycles of shame, grief, and isolation, adversely affecting not just themselves but their families and communities. The foundation shares with Saturday Star that its approach is designed to dismantle these barriers, creating a safe, judgement-free space for individuals to openly share their struggles and collaboratively navigate the difficult path to recovery. Sibongile Simelane-Quntana, Executive Director of SARGF, emphasises the role of this support group, stating, 'Our support group is more than a resource; it's a lifeline. By embracing Ubuntu, we remind participants that healing thrives in community. The courage to say, 'I need help,' is met with immediate support from peers who truly understand, proving that solidarity can achieve what therapy alone often cannot.' To make it easier for people to get help no matter where they are, the group uses WhatsApp to chat in real time and holds online meetings every Saturday on Microsoft Teams. These virtual sessions are designed to build an interconnected community, characterised by shared stories, effective coping strategies, and accountability checks. Participants laud the platform's 24/7 availability as critical in resisting urges: 'At 2 am, when guilt and anxiety tighten their grip, there's always someone to pull me back from the edge. Knowing I'm not alone makes the impossible feel possible,' says Simelane-Quntana. The NRGP model also aligns with legally mandated recovery pathways outlined in South Africa's National Gambling Act of 2004. This includes measures such as voluntary self-exclusion, enabling individuals to block their gambling access for a minimum of six months while committing to counselling; in the financial year 2024/2025, 4 166 referrals were managed, with 902 specifically for self-exclusions. Another approach, third-party exclusion, allows family members or dependants to petition the courts for gambling restrictions on individuals struggling with addiction. While some people were initially hesitant to join due to stigma and anxiety, the group's anonymous nature has helped more individuals feel safe enough to reach out. Many members have since shared positive progress, staying away from gambling for six months or more as they focus on healing relationships and improving their finances. The SARGF says it plans to broaden access through regional support hubs and strategic partnerships with local leaders. 'Relapse prevention requires innovation. Our vision is a nationwide web of support rooted in shared humanity where every individual can reclaim their future.' With an unwavering commitment to empowering lives, the SARGF is redefining the landscape of recovery, proving that together, healing and support can illuminate even the darkest of paths.' Saturday Star
The Citizen
27-04-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
SARGF demands action on gambling and mental health
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF) is drawing attention to the policy issues of problem gambling as a mental health concern and the legislative frameworks in place to support affected individuals. 'Problem gambling, recognised as a mental health disorder, can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. 'SARGF emphasises the importance of rehabilitation processes and the need to address legislative gaps to ensure comprehensive protection for vulnerable people. 'The foundation calls upon policy and lawmakers to develop a multi-cross-departmental policy,' said SARGF executive director Sibongile Simelane-Quntana. Simelane highlighted that the Constitution of South Africa enshrines the right to access healthcare services, including mental health care, under Section 27(1)(a). She mentioned that this provision underscores the state's obligation to provide adequate support and treatment for individuals struggling with mental health challenges, including gambling addiction. 'As a leading non-profit company (NPC), the SARGF reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the rights of problem gamblers to access quality mental health care and rehabilitation services, ensuring no one is left behind. 'Access to mental health care is a fundamental right and problem gambling is a serious life-changing experience that requires urgent attention. 'We are dedicated to ensuring that individuals affected by gambling addiction receive the support and treatment they need to rebuild their lives despite limited resources. No one should face this struggle alone,' said Simelane-Quntana. 'Problem gambling requires a compassionate and comprehensive response. While the self-exclusion and third-party exclusion mechanisms are valuable tools, we must address the gaps in our legislation to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. 'Human Rights Month is an opportune time to reflect on how we can better protect the rights and dignity of those affected by gambling addiction,' concluded Simelane-Quintana. The Foundation's primary objectives are Education: Raising public awareness about the dangers of gambling addiction and promoting responsible gambling habits. Counselling: Providing support and counselling to individuals and families affected by gambling addiction. Monitoring: Evaluating gambling trends to influence policy and advocate for effective treatment of gambling addiction. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
