How to Stop Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction is an extremely difficult habit to break. Attempting to overcome
gambling addiction on your own is not recommended judiking, but seeking professional help
can make all the difference in successfully stopping the urges. The most effective
way to stop gambling is to go on a gambling rehab programme where you can
receive intensive one-to-one therapy. However, there are also a number of other
things you can do to aid your recovery.
Identify your triggers – people, places and things that make you want to gamble. You
can then work with a counsellor to find ways of avoiding these triggers judiking free credit. For example,
if passing a casino or TAB on your way home from work makes you feel the urge to
gamble, then take an alternative route home. Similarly, if you’re thinking about
gambling while watching sports on TV, then change the channel. It’s also important
to avoid financial risk factors like using credit cards or carrying large amounts of
cash.
Get support – finding friends and family who will not encourage you to gamble is a
good idea. Alternatively, joining a gambling rehabilitation group with others who are
recovering from the same issue can be a powerful motivating force. You can share
your successes and challenges with the group, giving and receiving helpful advice
along the way.
Practice relaxation techniques – activities like meditation, deep breathing and
mindfulness exercises can all help you slow down and shift your thoughts away from
gambling. Having a daily practice will help you become more resilient when the
urges come up and will teach you coping strategies that can be used in the future.
Learn to cope with cravings – it is normal to have urges when you first start trying to
quit gambling. However, if you can recognise that a craving is coming on, you can
postpone the activity by taking up a different hobby, calling a friend or doing some
other form of recreation. This will give you the time to get over the craving and
remind you that there are many other enjoyable and fulfilling ways to spend your
time.
Keep a journal – writing about your feelings is an effective technique that can be
used to motivate yourself to stay on track with your recovery. The journal can be a
reminder of how much better your life is without gambling and why you made the
decision to quit. It can also be a great tool for tracking your progress and celebrating
your achievements.
It’s possible to overcome a gambling addiction with hard work and the right support
system. If you’re serious about getting back on track, consider speaking to a
counsellor or looking at the many gambling rehab programmes available. They can
help you kick the habit for good, so that you can live your life free of the urge to
gamble. Inpatient or residential treatment and rehab programs are also available for
those who can’t stop gambling on their own and need round-the-clock support.