Gambling is an activity that involves placing something of value at risk (usually money) on a game of chance with the potential to win a prize. Games of chance include scratch cards, slot machines, bingo, betting on events and teams, and even racing animals. Gambling is a dangerous and addictive activity that can result in financial ruin and psychological damage.
If you know someone who has a gambling problem, it is important to encourage them to seek help from a professional. This is not an easy task, and you may not be able to convince them to change until they are ready. If you are worried about someone’s gambling, call us and we can assist with getting them help in a safe, private environment.
Unlike other addictions, gambling can have a positive impact on your life if you do it in moderation and have an allocated budget for the activity. It can be a fun way to spend time with friends, and it can provide a sense of achievement and thrill when you win. However, it is important to understand that you will most likely lose more than you win and you cannot rely on winning to make you happy.
When you feel a craving for gambling, try to delay the urge by taking deep breaths or engaging in some other activity that will distract you. This will allow you to gain control of the situation and give you time to refocus on other, more healthy things that you can do.
Another way to manage your gambling is to learn about your triggers. For example, if you are tempted to gamble after a stressful day at work or after an argument with your partner, try to find healthier ways to relieve these unpleasant emotions. Some examples of this can include exercising, spending time with non-gambling friends, or practicing relaxation techniques.
It is also a good idea to retrain your mind to think of gambling as a leisure activity and not as a way to get rich. It is unlikely that you will be able to earn back the money you have lost in a casino, and the longer you chase your losses the more likely you are to continue to gamble.
Once you have retrained your thinking and stopped chasing your losses, it is important to set aside a fixed amount of money that you can afford to lose. This will ensure that you do not spend more than you can afford to lose and that you are not putting yourself in debt.
Once you have retrained your thinking, it is a good idea to replace gambling with a hobby that gives you a similar sense of achievement and excitement. Some ideas for this could be taking up a sport, a new hobby, or volunteering to help a charity that you care about. It is also a good idea to seek credit counseling from a debt management agency, as gambling debts can be difficult to pay off.