A basic guide on: how to quit problem gambling?

Are you struggling with a gambling addiction or is a family member or friend suffering from a gambling disorder? For those whose gambling has become more than just a pastime, it can be an addiction that wreaks havoc on their lives. Many people find themselves wasting both money and time in casinos, and when recreational enjoyment becomes an obsession, it is time to take action.

Gambling addiction is a serious issue that involves compulsive behavior and an inability to control spending on gambling activities, resulting in harmful consequences for the individual and those around them. Most treatment for problem gambling involves counseling, step-based programs, self-help, peer-support, medication, or a combination of these.

• Suggested read: 10 facts & myths in casino world.

However, no one treatment is considered to be most efficacious and, in the United States, no medications have been approved for the treatment of pathological gambling by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Problem gambling

Gambling addiction can have serious consequences, regardless of one’s background or social status. It is a condition that affects individuals of all ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Here are some tips for quitting gambling:

Find the main reason of gambling

To make the most out of your casino experience, it is essential to first understand why you are playing. Are you aiming to win big? Or do you just enjoy the thrill and fun of spinning the reels and taking risks with your bets? Your answer will help determine the best approach for you to take.

Gambling for money

The majority of players in a casino are not as fortunate, as only a few win. Even less have been able to keep winning consistently in the long run. Though it can feel like you are on a roll, it is usually only an illusion. This is due to players paying more attention to their wins and disregarding losses, which gives them a skewed sense of wins and losses. Therefore, the feeling of wins and losses is distorted.

If you’re curious about how much you’ve won or lost in the casino, it’s important to keep track of your deposits and withdrawals or record each session’s outcome. When you review the data over time, it becomes clear that gambling does not guarantee financial gain. By seeing these facts, you may decide to stop playing altogether, especially if you were primarily motivated by making money.

We believe that computing wins and losses can help to reinforce the notion that gambling leads to financial losses in the mind of the gambler. This is an effective way to develop a consciousness of disassociating from the game.

Gambling for fun

Reflect on the hobbies and activities you enjoy aside from gambling. These can be pastimes that have been forgotten or those that are new and stimulating. Consider it an opportunity to explore: there are countless other options for entertainment, some of which may be more enjoyable than a casino atmosphere. Take the time to reflect on what interests you and broaden your recreational horizons!

Create a list of activities that you enjoy and make sure to include them in your plans. Even if you do not typically plan out your days, by having something enjoyable to look forward to, the temptation of gambling will decrease. Whenever you feel an urge to gamble, go for a walk, hang out with friends, or visit family instead.

Do not struggle with your gambling addiction on your own. Engage your family and friends in your efforts to overcome it, they will be delighted to support you. You may also want to communicate with people who share similar experiences on online forums. Additionally, reading stories about the negative effects of gambling can help motivate you on your journey to recovery.

Bans on deposits

One of the most effective ways to stop gambling is to bar deposits. A gambler from an overseas website proposed this tactic. To achieve this, you have to get in touch with the payment systems you are using and ask them to restrict deposits to gambling establishments.

If you find it difficult to arrange for the deposit option to be disabled with the company, there is another option: simply do not keep any money in electronic wallets. Although this may create some inconveniences, it is a necessary step in order to stop gambling.

Photos of your loved ones

If you have loved ones in your life, their reminder can help motivate you to fight against your addiction. Place a photo of them where you would easily see it, such as next to the computer, as a source of strength when the urge to play arises. Investing in your relationship with these special people can also give you the energy to persevere and cope with the addiction.

Control the gambling experience

Gaining control over your gaming habits can be a victory over any form of addiction. To maintain control, it is recommended to set certain limits such as the amount of money deposited, the stake amount and the losses incurred at an online casino. Moreover, you can also limit the time spent on gambling and even opt out of the game forever if need be.

Create a rule for yourself that states: as soon as you win, you must withdraw your winnings immediately. This is because not only can losses lead to people losing control, but so can the feeling of euphoria that comes after winning. If this feeling is allowed to take over, it can lead to people playing more and more until they’ve lost all their money.

Sticking to this rule requires effort, but it’s necessary in order to quit gambling. In the beginning, you will need to rely on yourself to make changes and eventually those changes will become habits.

Withdraw the money you won and make it less accessible by transferring it out of your electronic wallet. You can even use this money to treat yourself to a special purchase.

Final thoughts

Gambling can be a difficult process, especially if you have a problem with gambling addiction. The best approach is to seek help from a professional who specializes in treating gambling addictions.

You may also benefit from joining a support group, such as Gamblers Anonymous, so that you can talk to people who understand the challenges you are facing. In addition, it is important to avoid triggering situations that may lead to gambling, such as visiting casinos or playing games online. Finally, it is important to set realistic goals and develop strategies for meeting these goals.