Betting addiction (also called problem gambling) is when betting starts to harm your money, health, work or relationships, and you find it hard to stop. It can happen to anyone. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable. This guide covers the warning signs, practical ways to stay in control and where to get free help in Kenya.
Warning signs to watch for
- Betting more money, or more often, than you planned.
- Chasing losses to win back money.
- Borrowing money, using loan apps or selling things to bet.
- Using money meant for rent, food, school fees or family.
- Hiding your betting or lying about it.
- Feeling restless, anxious or irritable when you try to stop.
- Betting to escape stress, boredom or problems.
- Arguments at home about money or betting.
If several of these sound familiar, it is a good time to take action and talk to someone.
Practical steps to stay in control
- Set a budget you can afford to lose and never top it up. See our bankroll guide.
- Use limits. JetBet’s terms say it provides deposit, loss, spending and session controls, and reminders. Set them when you are calm.
- Never borrow to bet.
- Take regular breaks, including full days or weeks without betting.
- Do not bet when stressed, drunk or upset.
- Keep betting social and small. Read how to keep betting fun.
- Talk to someone you trust about how much you bet.
Self-exclusion
If you need a proper break, self-exclusion blocks you from betting for a set period. JetBet’s terms say you can request exclusion through the platform or customer support, and that support will explain the steps for the national exclusion process. During exclusion, do not open another account or use someone else’s.
Free support in Kenya
- one2one hotline: 1190 (free call or SMS), confidential counselling on many topics including gambling.
- Responsible Gambling Kenya: 0798 683 283, free confidential counselling and family support, including via WhatsApp.
- Befrienders Kenya: +254 722 178 177, free and confidential emotional support by phone, SMS and WhatsApp, if you are feeling overwhelmed or having thoughts of harming yourself.
If you are worried about a friend or family member, these services can support you too.
Helping a friend or family member
If someone close to you is struggling, talk to them calmly and without judgement, focus on how you have noticed their betting affecting them, and encourage them to call a support line. Avoid lending money for betting or paying off betting debts without a plan. Support services such as Responsible Gambling Kenya also help families.
Key takeaways
- Know the warning signs: chasing, borrowing, hiding and betting to escape.
- Budgets, limits and breaks keep betting under control.
- Self-exclusion and free counselling are available in Kenya.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I am addicted to betting?
Common signs include chasing losses, borrowing to bet, hiding your betting and feeling unable to stop. If betting is causing problems, it is worth talking to a counsellor.
Where can I get help for betting addiction in Kenya?
Free options include the one2one hotline (1190) and Responsible Gambling Kenya (0798 683 283).
Can I block myself from betting on JetBet?
Yes. You can request self-exclusion through the platform or JetBet customer support.
Betting is for adults 18 and over. For more information, visit our responsible gambling page.
