How to Overcome a Gambling Addiction
Gambling is the act of risking something of value, such as money or property, on an event involving chance. It involves three elements: consideration, risk, and a prize. It is a common activity that can have negative consequences, including addiction. Gambling is often associated with other types of addictions and can have devastating effects on families and society. It is important to be aware of the warning signs and seek treatment for gambling addiction if you or someone you know has one.
The key to overcoming a gambling problem is finding healthier ways to cope with unpleasant feelings. Many people gamble as a way to self-soothe unpleasant emotions or relieve boredom, but there are other healthy ways to do this, such as exercising, socializing with friends who don’t gamble, and practicing relaxation techniques. In addition, a person can strengthen their support network by reaching out to family and friends, joining a book club or sports team, taking an educational class, or volunteering for a cause.
It’s also crucial to set financial boundaries and avoid chasing losses. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’re due for a big win or can recoup your losses if you just keep playing. This is called the “gambler’s fallacy” and it’s a dangerous mental trap to get into.
Lastly, it’s essential to be honest with friends and family about the issue. Often, loved ones of gamblers are the first to notice that they’re struggling and should be supportive of their decision to stop gambling. They should also help them find treatment options, if necessary.
A therapist can help a person identify the causes of their gambling addiction and teach them coping skills. They can also work with the individual to develop a plan to overcome their gambling problem and address any underlying issues, such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, a therapist can provide advice about legal and ethical issues related to gambling.
If you’re concerned about a friend or family member’s gambling habits, speak to one of our counsellors. They’re available 24/7 and are free and confidential. You can also visit our advice pages to find out more about gambling and what to do if you feel it’s having a detrimental impact on your life. You can also use our self-exclusion scheme to put a block on venues and websites that you find triggering. This will stop you from accessing them and relapsing. This is the best way to protect yourself against relapse and maintain your recovery. However, it is only a temporary measure and you will still need to take other steps to overcome your gambling addiction. Longitudinal research is a valuable tool for studying the social and economic impacts of gambling. It is more cost-efficient than a one-time study and can reveal the nuances of the gambler’s decision making process. It can also identify the factors that moderate and exacerbate gambling participation, which are difficult to quantify in a single study.