Play responsibly: keep the calendar from running you

Why a promotions calendar needs a stop button

A calendar is designed to make dates feel important. The 7th, the start of a new feature, the last evening before a code lapses: each one is a small nudge to deposit. None of them is a reason to play. Missing an offer costs nothing, while money spent to catch one is gone whatever the bonus terms say.

Bonus money also comes with wagering, which can stretch a session well past what you meant to spend. If you only play when a code appears, the offer may be choosing your play days for you.

Springbok's own limits and self-exclusion

Springbok's responsible-gaming page says players can set daily or monthly deposit limits, and can self-exclude for a period they choose with a minimum of one month. Both are arranged by contacting the casino rather than through a switch in the account. Springbok also says its support team can set up session reminders.

1. Contact support

   Use the live chat on Springbok's site or lobby, or email help@springbokcasino.co.za.

2. Say exactly what you want

   For example, a monthly deposit limit at a fixed rand amount, or self-exclusion for six months.

3. Ask for it in writing

   Request an email confirming the limit or exclusion and the date it starts, and keep that email.

4. Switch off the reminders too

   Ask support to stop promotional emails and messages as well, so the 7th of the month stops arriving in your inbox.

Warning signs worth taking seriously

• You deposit on offer days whether or not you had planned to play that month.
• You top up to reach a bigger match than you meant to claim.
• You chase losses, telling yourself the next feature will win them back.
• Rent, groceries or borrowed money end up in a casino balance.
• You hide how much you play from people close to you.
• You feel restless or irritable on the days you do not play.

One of these on its own is worth noticing. Two or more is a good moment to call 0800 006 008 for a confidential chat.

Budget habits for people who follow offers

• Fix a monthly gambling amount before the 1st, write it down and treat it as spent.
• Count any bonus as part of that amount, never as extra money.
• Pick one offer a month at most, and skip whole months now and then.
• Never deposit simply to use a code you would not otherwise have played with.
• Set a time limit for each session and stop when it runs out, win or lose.

Free help in South Africa

The NRGP line offers free counselling, assessment and referral to treatment, and family members worried about someone's gambling can get support too. More is on responsiblegambling.org.za. If you are in crisis or thinking of harming yourself, call the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0800 567 567, free and open around the clock.