Overcoming Gambling Problems on Your Own
If you’re fundamentally stable enough, you may be able to combat and overcome gambling problems on your own. The most important thing is to identify the problem early and acknowledge it. For many sufferers, this is the best way forward—but it’s not an easy process.
The right approach is usually to tell someone you trust about your problems and then work with them to take further steps. However, if you’re one of those people who no longer has anyone you trust, or if shame still dominates, there may be some self-help options available.
“Locking yourself out” of gambling
This is easier said than done. It’s still worth a try. Non GamStop casinos, land-based casinos, and even online bookmakers offer various tools that can help you along this path. You can usually find these tools on dedicated subpages dedicated to responsible gaming. See our section on comparison of £10 non GamStop casinos for more details.
This includes, for example, the option to self-prescribe a break or even request a complete self-exclusion from gambling. Setting limits is also possible. For these tools to work, you must use them consistently if you suffer from problem gambling.
You also have the option of installing filter software to block access to non GamStop casinos. However, this also requires a high degree of self-discipline, as you can theoretically bypass this block at any time or simply delete the software.
You’ll find many slot machines in land-based casinos, restaurants, rest stops, and the like. Either avoid these places consistently or resist the urge to gamble there. And here, too, a great deal of self-discipline is required.
Distraction is key
If you’re someone struggling with a gambling problem, gambling will likely take up a large portion of your time. Avoiding places where you come into contact with gambling can quickly lead to boredom. Fill this boredom with other activities, such as exercise. Join a fitness club and, ideally, make new friends there.
Distraction also reduces your risk of falling into further negative spirals. Earlier in the text, we mentioned that other addictions can be a result of gambling addiction. If you distract yourself from gambling and therefore gamble less, you may also reduce your risk of falling victim to another addiction, such as alcohol.
View gambling realistically
What do we mean when we advise you to take a realistic approach to gambling? Well, gambling is gambling. It doesn’t matter whether you’re sitting at a blackjack or roulette table, placing a sports bet, or spinning the reels on a slot machine. Whenever you feel the urge to place a bet or start a game, keep this in mind.
You can’t generate a secure income through gambling. Sure, you’ll make some winnings here and there. Maybe even bigger ones. But as the old saying goes, “In the end, the house always wins!” Even at platforms like the Tea Spins non GamStop casino site, non GamStop casinos have what’s called the “house edge.” And it’s precisely this house edge that ensures the casino wins in the end.
Also, don’t look for the perfect strategy that guarantees you winnings. Because there is no such strategy. At the end of the day, you may be able to increase your odds, but you’ll never overcome the casino’s house edge. So, give up on the idea that you can amass wealth through casino games.
A trait observed in many affected individuals is due to another misconception: the belief that one day they’ll win a big prize that will make everything better. Of course, it’s not mathematically impossible that this actually happens. But the probability is vanishingly small.
Soberly compare the advantages and disadvantages
Probably every adult has been in a situation where they had to weigh the pros and cons. A classic example is the good old pros and cons list. For example, write down what you believe to be the advantages of actively participating in gambling. But also list the disadvantages that could arise or have already arisen. Important: Be 100% honest!
Keep a diary
Keeping a journal can help you track exactly when you feel the urge to gamble. Do you gamble out of boredom? Do you gamble when you’re stressed? Or perhaps you gamble when you’ve had problems at work or in a relationship? Using this journal, you may be able to identify a certain tendency and work on the causes.
Important: Overcoming gambling problems isn’t easy—especially on your own. If you feel like you can’t overcome your gambling problems on your own, it’s time to take further steps. We’ll now introduce these measures in more detail.
Online help or telephone support
On almost all non GamStop casinos, you’ll find links to support organizations that specialize in problem gambling. These organizations’ websites usually offer the option to speak with an expert by phone or chat. This option makes sense in the first instance because you can discuss your gambling problems or suspicions under the protection of the anonymity of the internet.
The following organizations are often listed:
- Gamblers Anonymous
- GamCare
- Gambling Therapy
- Check your game
- QuitGamble
- Responsible Gaming Council
- Players’ clinic
- Nationwide against gambling addiction
The experts will offer you specific tips and support, or they can provide or establish direct links to further support services. Regular telephone counseling is also a good alternative if you need someone to talk to. Contact is available by phone, chat, email, or even in person.
Involve family and friends
We’ve already discussed how many people affected may find it difficult to confide in people close to them. Gambling addicts fear rejection, being lectured, or even being labeled a failure. Ultimately, if you’re having problems, you should still try to contact your partner, parents, siblings, or close friends.
The people in your immediate circle know you best and can be an excellent and important support on the path to overcoming gambling problems. Especially if you have a good relationship, you should consider taking this step, even if you’re initially reluctant.