In my 12 years working as a clinical psychologist in Jakarta and Surabaya, I’ve sat with hundreds of Indonesians whose lives quietly unraveled because of Gambling Addiction—often starting with small online bets that grew uncontrollable. The good news in 2025: help is more accessible and less stigmatized than ever before.
Quick Takeaway:
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone and effective help is completely free and confidential in Indonesia right now.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Problem in Indonesia
Gambling (including online slots, sports betting, and togel) is illegal under Indonesian law except for limited state lotteries. Despite the ban, millions still access offshore sites. A 2024 Ministry of Health survey estimated 2.1% of adults show problem gambling signs—higher in urban areas.
Official & Free Gambling Addiction Help Resources (2025)
1. National Mental Health Hotline – Kemenkes RI
- Phone: 119 ext. 8 (24/7, free from all providers)
- Languages: Bahasa Indonesia & English
- Trained counselors can connect you to local Puskesmas psychologists
2. Yayasan Sehat Jiwa (YSJ) – Dedicated Gambling Program
- Jakarta office: +62 21 7883 5206
- Free weekly support groups in Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Medan
- Online counseling available via WhatsApp: +62 811-1900-119
3. Rumah Sakit Jiwa (Mental Hospitals) with Addiction Units
- RSJ Marzoeki Mahdi Bogor
- RSJ Soeharto Heerdjan Jakarta
- RSJ Prof. Dr. Soerojo Magelang All accept BPJS Kesehatan (free for citizens)
4. Religious-Based Support (Widely Accepted in Indonesia)
- Maha Bodhi Foundation (Buddhist) – free counseling
- Catholic Crisis Center (KWI) – nationwide parishes
- Muhammadiyah & Nahdlatul Ulama mental health wings
International Services Available in Bahasa Indonesia
- Gambling Therapy (UK-based): Live chat & email support in Bahasa Indonesia
- Website: gamblingtherapy.org (translated version available)
Self-Exclusion & Digital Blocking Tools
- Gamban & BetBlocker: Free blocking software (works on Indonesian IPs)
- Bank-level blocking: Most major Indonesian banks (BCA, Mandiri, BNI) now allow gambling site transaction blocking on request
Key Warning Signs (Fact Box)
- Chasing losses
- Lying about gambling time/money
- Borrowing money or selling items to gamble
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
- Gambling affecting work, study, or family relationships
If you recognize 3 or more signs, reach out today.
Also Read: Legal Issues of Online Gambling in Indonesia 2025
What’s New in 2025
- BPJS Kesehatan now officially covers behavioral addiction therapy (including gambling)
- Kemenkes launched “STOP Judi Online” mobile reporting & self-help app
- 17 new Puskesmas now have trained addiction counselors (up from 3 in 2023)
Pros & Cons of Seeking Help in Indonesia
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Completely free via BPJS | Limited specialist centers outside Java |
| Religious support widely accepted | Cultural stigma still exists |
| 24-hour national hotline | Long waiting lists at some RSJ |
FAQs
Q: Is seeking help for gambling addiction haram/considered sinful?
A: Major Islamic organizations (MUI, Muhammadiyah, NU) explicitly state that seeking treatment for any illness—including addiction—is encouraged and rewarded.
Q: Will my family find out if I call the hotline?
A: All services listed are 100% confidential. They will never contact family without your written permission.
Q: Can I get help if I’m not ready to quit completely?
A: Yes. Most programs use “harm reduction” approaches and will meet you wherever you are.
Q: Are there any online support groups in Bahasa Indonesia?
A: Yes—Yayasan Sehat Jiwa runs closed WhatsApp and Zoom groups multiple times per week.
Final Words
In my practice, I’ve watched taxi drivers, university students, and even grandmothers rebuild their lives after gambling took everything. The turning point is always the same: making that first phone call. It feels terrifying, but every single person who reached out told me later it was the best decision they ever made.
You deserve peace. Help is available right now, for free, without judgment.
Disclaimer:
Gambling involves financial risk and may cause harm if not practiced responsibly. Only participate if you are of legal age in your region. This content is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee winnings or outcomes. If you need immediate help, please call 119 ext. 8 (Indonesia national mental health hotline) right now.
