How to Stop Gambling

Gambling can be an enjoyable social activity for many people, but it can also lead to serious financial, relationship and family problems. This is especially true for people who have become addicted to gambling.

If you are worried about your gambling, seek help from a professional as soon as possible. This could save you money and stress. There are many organisations and services that can help you, so find out more.

The first step is to admit that you have a problem with gambling and let someone know what is going on. This can be a friend or a family member, but it is best to find a support person you trust who won’t judge you.

Admitting that you have a problem can be hard, but it can help you get the support you need to stop gambling. It can also give you confidence and peace of mind to realise that there are others who have experienced the same thing and can help you.

Talk to a professional about your problem and ask them to help you come up with a treatment plan. They may recommend therapy, counselling or self-help methods.

Rehab programs can provide intensive support to overcome a gambling addiction. They often include family therapy, marriage and career counseling, as well as credit counseling. These therapies can help you address the specific issues created by your problem and build a solid foundation for recovery.

Cognitive-behavioural therapy can also be useful to treat gambling addiction. It involves learning to resist thoughts and habits that trigger the urge to gamble. These include thinking that losing a bet will make you feel worse, or that winning a bet will improve your life.

Set time limits on your gambling and stick to them. This helps you keep a healthy balance between gambling and other activities in your life, such as work or other interests.

Avoid using credit cards or taking out loans to gamble. This is an extremely dangerous habit and can ruin your credit score and your finances.

If you are borrowing to gamble, consider a debt management service that will help you manage your finances and avoid bankruptcy. They will also help you to keep your gambling within a budget and avoid overspending.

It is important to recognise that a problem with gambling can be hard to detect and can take time to resolve. The sooner you start looking for help, the easier it will be to overcome your problem and return to a happier, healthier lifestyle.

Re-establish old hobbies that you used to enjoy. These can be a good way to re-build your self-esteem and give you something to focus on other than gambling.

Join a support group or get in touch with GamCare to find out about online services. These will allow you to talk with an adviser in an instant message or over the telephone.

Keeping a journal about your gambling can also help you to see how much it is impacting on your life. By writing down your feelings and what you did, it can be easier to work out why you are gambling and how to stop.