08/07/2022
Modern technology has made us more connected than ever before; unfortunately, this also means that online gambling is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and allows anyone to place bets easily and quickly. Unlimited access to online gambling is just one of many factors that could lead to gambling addiction. In this blog, we’ll go through 10 of our top tips to help you stop gambling online.
Recognising Bad Behaviours
Begin to consider how much money you’re betting and how much time you’re spending gambling. Do you find yourself missing out on spending time with the people you care about because you're focused on your mobile phone? Recognising that you are engaging in harmful and potentially addictive behaviours is an important first step on the road to recovery.
Plan Your Time
Many people find themselves gambling in their downtime, simply out of boredom. What other ways would you rather spend your time? Rekindling an old hobby? Taking up a new one? Spending time with family and friends?
Invest your time in the activities that bring you joy.
Make a List of the Reasons You Should Stop Gambling Online
Perspective is important, and so is remembering that gambling doesn't only affect you. We recommend taking some time to think about the reasons why you should stop gambling and write them down.
Some reasons to stop gambling could be to:
- Spend more quality time with loved ones
- Spend time doing things you enjoy
- Reduce stress
- Avoid or get out of debt
There are many reasons for anyone to stop gambling, but what are some personal to you?
Get Back to What You like Doing
Do you have a hobby that you’ve neglected? If the answer is yes, then it's time to revive an old passion.
If not, this is an excellent opportunity to try something you've always wanted to do!
Fancy yourself an artist? Try painting! Want to take up a sport? Join your local five-a-side! Always wanted to learn another language? Now’s your chance!
As with most behavioural addictions, it is essential to replace negative addiction with a more healthy activity. This will help keep you focused on the advantages of your new lifestyle rather than what you are missing out on.
Block Gambling Websites and Apps
Blocking access to online gambling will mean that if you feel the urge to gamble, you won't be able to do it. Gamban is an easy-to-use, non-intrusive tool that, once installed on all your devices, will help you remove the temptation to gamble.
It is also very important that you avoid forums or groups where the topics are focused on gambling.
Consult a Therapist Who Works with Addictions
Gambling addiction can be challenging. Counselling or therapy may be the best course of action. There are many different types of support to suit anyone's needs and recovery journey: You can do it individually, in a group, in specialised centres, or online.
- One-on-one Support
One-on-one support, such as talking with speciality therapists, counsellors and CBT. These types of sessions give you the opportunity to discuss what's on your mind with a professional in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment.
- Support Groups
However you're feeling, you're not alone. Support groups provide a space for you to connect with others, share your story, and hear from others like you.
- Residential Support
If you're struggling to overcome your gambling addiction, residential treatment programmes can be an effective way of helping you to regain control of your life.
You can find more information on our help page.
Distance Yourself from Friends Who Gamble
It can be hard to abstain from something when others around you still participate in it. Gambling is no exception.
Spending time with people who gamble often may tempt you to do the same. The best option is to tell your friends or distance yourself from them during your recovery. Your friends should respect your wishes and want to help you with your recovery.
Ask Someone You Trust to Stand by You and Help Keep an Eye on Your Finances
Having someone to stand by and support you during your recovery journey can be a massive help. You can ask that person to remind you that you are on the right track and that your life is changing for the better.
Having someone else keep an eye on your finances will help keep you accountable, as they'll know if you've gambled. Another option is money management services and banks that offer transaction blocking for casinos and online gambling sites.
Reduce Stress with Meditation and Exercise
Stress has been identified as a common trigger for gambling behaviour. Almost half of those undergoing cognitive behavioural therapy for gambling disorders identified negative emotional states, such as stress, as strong gambling triggers.
Meditation and exercise are great ways to help reduce stress and keep yourself busy! You could always start by joining your local yoga class, gym or simply meditating at home.
Don't Give Up
The road to recovery can be a challenging and long process. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither can addiction be overcome quickly - Don't give up!
Everyone in recovery has moments of doubt, where they can feel their willpower slipping. Step by step, you will overcome these obstacles. This is all part of your journey to recovery.
If you feel your willpower slipping and want a safety net, just in case. Download Gamban onto all of your devices and block yourself from online gambling.
