7 Steps to Help and Support If You Have a Gambling Problem

Gambling is an activity where you risk money or something of value, such as a prize, for the chance of winning more than you have staked. It can be an exciting way to spend time and money, but can also lead to a problem when you gamble excessively.

If you have a gambling problem, it can affect other areas of your life as well, such as your mental health, finances and relationships with others. There are a number of steps you can take to get help and support.

1. Identify the problem: When you first notice that you are gambling more than you should, take steps to stop and find out what’s going on. It can be hard to recognise a problem early, but it’s worth speaking to someone about it as soon as possible.

2. Avoid the temptation: Whenever you’re thinking about betting, stop and think about your reasons for doing so and whether it’s really worth it. It’s also a good idea to set limits on how much you can spend and when you should stop, so that you’re not tempted to continue gambling if it’s not worth it.

3. Talk to a professional: A qualified professional can help you assess your situation and suggest ways to improve your wellbeing and reduce the harm caused by your gambling. They can also work with you to develop new coping strategies.

4. Reach out to others: Gambling can be lonely, so you need to make sure you have a support network. You can join a group that meets regularly, such as Gamblers Anonymous, or you can contact other people who have suffered from problem gambling and ask for their advice.

5. Seek help for underlying mood disorders: Depression, stress, substance abuse and anxiety are all things that can trigger gambling problems and make them worse. These are all treatable conditions and it’s important to seek help for them if you have them.

6. Strengthen your support network: It’s important to build a strong network of friends and family who will be there for you as you recover from your gambling problem. This will not only help you stay on track, it will also give you the confidence you need to resist tempting urges and make changes that are beneficial for your life.

7. Embrace recovery: There are many options for gambling treatment and recovery, and you should choose one that is right for you. This can include talking therapies, such as family therapy and marriage and career counselling. It can also involve a structured program of treatment that teaches you to manage your emotions, and how to cope with temptations that arise when gambling.

8. Avoid the irrational: Irrational beliefs are another common mistake that can lead to harmful gambling. They can include the idea that a certain pattern of losses is a sign that you’re about to win, and that a string of losing streaks can lead to big wins.