Gambling involves risking something of value on a random event with the expectation of winning something else of value. It is a form of addiction and can be very difficult to overcome.
Gambling has been a popular leisure activity for centuries, and it is still prevalent in society today. It can be done in casinos, on sports events and even online. It can be extremely addictive, and it can lead to financial ruin if not controlled. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, here are some tips on how to cope.
1. Reach out for support.
Getting help for gambling problems can be a challenge, but there are resources available. Reaching out to friends and family can be a helpful way to stop gambling, as can joining a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous. Some research has shown that physical activity can also help.
2. Set limits and stick to them.
When you gamble, make sure you’re only spending money that you can afford to lose. Make it a rule not to use credit cards when gambling and keep only a certain amount of cash on you. If you find yourself tempted to gamble, tell yourself to stop and think about the consequences, or find something else to do immediately.
3. Avoid gambling when you’re upset or down.
It’s hard to make good decisions when you’re feeling down, so it’s a bad idea to gamble. Instead, try other activities that can give you a similar rush like reading, watching TV, or exercising. If you need to, ask for help or seek out therapy.
4. Be aware of the different reasons people gamble.
Generally, there are four reasons why people gamble: for social reasons – for example, it’s what their friends do when they get together; for coping reasons – for example, to forget about their worries; or for financial reasons – because they want to win. These aren’t necessarily bad reasons to gamble, but they may be a sign that someone is starting to develop an addiction.
5. Don’t gamble when you’re upset or down.
Gambling can be especially dangerous when you’re depressed or upset. This is because the urge to gamble will be amplified by your emotions, and you’ll be more likely to lose. Instead, try to do other things that can give you a similar rush, such as exercising or socialising with friends.
6. Consider the effects of gambling on your loved one.
It can be challenging to cope with a loved one’s addiction to gambling, especially if they’re constantly asking you for money. However, it’s important to remember that they didn’t choose to become a problem gambler. They probably don’t realise how their behaviour is affecting you, so remember to be compassionate and take steps to protect your own finances. Also, if you’re struggling with your own gambling habits, get in touch with our team for advice. We’re here to help you beat the habit.
