How to Stop a Gambling Problem
If you’re dealing with a loved one who has a gambling problem, it’s important to be honest and supportive. This will help them get the support they need and keep a gambling addiction under control.
Getting the right kind of help is a must for any addict and there are many places to find it. You can visit a rehab centre, seek advice through the National Gambling Helpline or attend an online self-help group such as Gam-Anon to receive support.
Delaying your urges
When you’re feeling tempted to gamble, delay the urge by taking some time out and doing something else. This is not an easy task and you may struggle with it at first, but by giving your mind and body some time to calm down, the urge will subside. It can also be helpful to tell someone you know that you’re struggling with your urges.
Making a budget
The most effective way to stop a gambling problem is to set limits on the amount you spend. This will give you a target to work towards and make it easier to stay away from gambling for long periods of time.
Avoiding triggers
If you have a gambling problem, it’s vital to identify any triggers that cause you to want to gamble. This can be things such as driving by a casino, watching sports or even having a drink. It’s worth noting that the more triggers you have, the higher your risk of developing a problem.
Setting a budget
If your loved one has a gambling problem, it’s vital that they are not allowed to use any credit cards or loans for their gambling. This will ensure that they do not put themselves at risk of losing their money, or even worse, their credit rating.
Changing their bank account
If your partner has a gambling problem, it’s essential that they change their bank account and not link it to yours. This can make it difficult to see their finances and could put your own finances at risk, too.
Contacting the police and taking their statements will also help them to get the help they need and prevent any problems in the future. It can also prevent any further crimes, such as fraud or identity theft.
In some cases, it’s even possible to stop a gambling problem from happening entirely. Some people with gambling problems are at increased risk of a mental health problem such as depression or anxiety. These symptoms can be very distressing for them, which can lead to them wanting to gamble.
Visiting a therapist can be the best option for getting professional support to cope with a gambling problem. This will help you address the issues that have led to your addiction and develop new, healthier ways of thinking about the situation.
Working with other people
A lot of people with gambling problems have been able to recover from their addiction by working with other people who understand what they are going through. These can include support groups such as Gam-Anon and Alcoholics Anonymous, as well as online forums.