GamblingAnon- Free resources and information on gambling addiction

Rationalizing Your Gambling Addiction

2009-02-22T01:50:00.003-05:00

One of the best ways that you can begin dealing with your gambling addiction is by searching deep within yourself to discover the real reasons behind your behavior.

It may be genetic. For instance, as scientists learn more and more about the human genome, they are discovering that many people are genetically predispositioned towards risk taking behaviors. There may also be another problem such as adult ADHD which also leads to problem gambling in many people.

Your gambling addiction may also be environmental. Are you a lonely person outside of the casino? Are you using gambling as an escape from other life problems? If this is the case, gambling will only make your problems worse as the debt piles up.

Usually gambling addiction is caused by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. This aside, everyone has free will and you can make the decision to quit gambling forever. Only YOU are in control of your actions; genetic and environmental factors simply influence the behavior, not control it.

Another day, Another Struggle - Dealing With My Gambling Addiction

2008-11-28T22:32:00.001-05:00

I really felt compelled to blog today since it was one of the crappiest days at work today and I am dealing with a very strong urge to take my pay check to the casino, but I won't... yet. (Kidding, kidding) But seriously, I keep thinking to myself over and over taunting thoughts of hitting the jackpot at the casino. I know I must ignore these thoughts however, because looking back on things, the number of times I really "won big" while gambling in a casino were actually very few, but I do remember my losses. I remember literally cursing at the blackjack table when I busted because the idiot before me didn't play according to strategy. I know some of you fellow gamblers must know what I'm talking about. The point to this is that gambling addiction has many negative psychological effects. It builds slowly and gradually until the gambler becomes someone who is almost psychotic and lives their life around their superstitious beliefs.

I really REALLY want to gamble right now, but I know that I cannot. I've tried exercising but no luck. Maybe I should play poker online for play chips... nah, I know where that will lead. Sometimes blogging is the only thing that retains my sanity in times like these.

Beating Your Gambling Addiction

2008-11-09T14:00:00.000-05:00

I want you to take 15 minutes a day and simply meditate. Calm yourself down, and when you have done so grab a pen and notepad. Now I want you to ask yourself "why do I gamble?" I want you to think long and hard about your answers as doing so will reveal to you the root of your gambling problems. Do you gamble to escape from emotions? Well you could most likely get a psychologist for less money than you would be gambling and in addition you would also be getting professional help to deal directly with your real emotions so you don't have to hide from them anymore. Do you gamble for the rush it provides? This is another common reason people slip into gambling addictions. It is important to remind yourself that there are many other alternatives to achieving such a rush. For example, skydiving, downhill skiing, running long distances will all provide you with an adrenaline rush that is far cheaper of an alternative than gambling. Do you gamble because you're lonely? This is another reason many American's gamble so really, you're not alone at all. For these people I recommend gambling group therapy. Through this, you will learn how to interact emotionally with other individuals who share the same problems. Always remember that gambling addiction is serious, and that by continuing to gamble you are not only hurting yourself, but all of your friends and family members as well.

Things You Didn't Know About Gambling

2008-11-09T01:42:00.000-05:00

Did you know that the DSM-IV now lists pathological gambling as an official mental disorder? Here are a few of the criteria one must meet to classify as a pathological gambler:

Increasing bets to get the same "rush" or "high".
Restless and irritable when not gambling or trying to cut down on gambling.
Committing illegal acts to obtain money to gamble.
Borrowing money from family or friends for the purposes of gambling.
Lying to family or friends about how much time or money spent gambling.
Gamble to escape from emotions.
Chase losses with further gambling in an attempt to win back everything.

Did you know that scientists have found that pathological gamblers have a high rate of comorbid psychological disorders?

Many gamblers have other psychological disorders in addiction to their pathological gambling. Some of the most common comorbid conditions are ADHD, Alcohol Abuse, Major Depressive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Did you know that it is possible to predict who will become problem gamblers later in life?

Scientists don't know all the causes behind gambling addiction, but they do know enough to factor certain equations that predict who is at higher risk. Some of the higher risk factors are:

Alcohol or drug abuse,
Deep in debt or a shopaholic,
Psychological disorders resutling in poor impulse control (ADHD),
A big win in early gambling history

Did you know that there really is no such thing as a "addictive personality"?

It's true. But there are personality traits that correlate strongly with
certain kinds of addictive behavior. For example, a depressed person might use drugs to relieve a feeling, and if successful is likely to use that particular drug repeatedly, leading to addiction. If gambling works as an escape for some, they are likely to continue gambling. As far as DSM-IV listings go however, there is no recognized definition of the term "addictive personality."

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Coping With Gambling Addiction, Day By Day

2008-10-28T03:33:00.002-04:00

Surprisingly, I am finding that I'm adjusting to my "no gambling under any circumstances whatsoever" resolution. It is nice to take my girlfriend out for the evening and actually have the money to pay for dinner. That is the biggest thing I am starting to notice. I also feel more and more confident in myself each day. I definitely think that my new outlook on life is resulting in some very powerful positive changes overall.

And sure I get the urges to gamble once in awhile, but I am making sure not to fall back into old habits again. To be one hundred percent honest, life has been so much more amazing since I left all that behind me. The ultimate trick for me and my personal gambling struggle is to build my self-esteem. I am finding that the more I feel good about myself, the less urges I have towards gambling. My girlfriend has noticed the changes too, and our relationship is going much more smoothly without me changing the conversation to gambling every time she tried to talk to me. Apparently, women like to be listened to; who knew? My new approach to life has also made me physically healthier as I now exercise everyday and eat much better now that I take the time to cook. At least one positive about my whole gambling addiction experience is that it led me to a new appreciation of life.

Age Of Gambling By State

2008-10-24T12:46:00.000-04:00

I thought this would be interesting and also useful statistics for anyone who is writing an assignment on gambling and happened to stumble upon my blog. Here is a list of the gambling age limit in each state (if gambling is illegal, state won't be listed).

Age of Gambling by State

Alaska- 18

Arizona- 21

California- 18 & 21

Colorado- 21

Connecticut- 18 & 21

Delaware- 21

DC- 18

Florida- 18 &21

Georgia- 21

Idaho- 18

Illinois- 21

Indiana- 21

Iowa- 21

Kansas- 21

Louisiana- 21

Maine- 18

Maryland- 21

Massachusetts- 18

Michigan- Indian Casinos- 19, Detroit Casinos- 21

Minnesota- 18

Mississippi- 21

Missouri- 21

Montana- 18

Nevada- 21

New Hampshire- 21

New Jersey- 21

New Mexico- 21

New York 18 & 21

North Carolina- 21

North Dakota- 21

Ohio- 18

Oklahoma- 18 & 21

Oregon 18 & 21

Pennsylvania- 21

Puerto Rico- 21

Rhode Island- 18

South Carolina- 21

South Dakota- 21

Virgin Islands- 21

Washington 18 & 21

West Virginia- 21

Wisconsin- 21

Canada Gambling Age

The gambling age in Canada is 19 in every except in Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec, and the Yukon where the gambling age is 18.

The Risks of Underground Gambling

2008-10-24T12:36:00.003-04:00

In addition to being extremely fraudulent, underground gambling is also illegal.

It has come to my attention that I have completely neglected to blog about the dangers of underground gambling, which is unlicensed and unregulated gambling. Now I am not talking about poker night at your buddy's house, although it is illegal if you are playing for money. What I am really talking about is "private games" that happen outside of a regulated and licensed casino or authorized other. This sort of underground gambling takes place in all major cities across the United States and even the world.

The risk with underground gambling is not getting caught by the police, but by the people who are running the game. If you are someone who engages in underground gambling I am telling you right now that your odds are much worse than even if you were gambling in a casino because there is no oversight whatsoever so 95% of the time the games are rigged. So if you are deciding to gamble which goes against everything I say in my gambling blog, than please do it in a regulated, licensed casino.

Do You Engage In Social Gambling?

2008-10-24T12:27:00.001-04:00

One of the biggest dangers I haven't really talked about too much is the danger of social gambling. Social gambling is when an individual uses gambling as a primary means of social activity. They know the names of the dealers, and they know other compulsive gamblers as well. A gambling addiction is much harder to break if a person is gambling for social fulfillment. There may be a number of reasons for this such as low self-esteem (they know the dealers will be friendly and not reject them) and there is lots of different people to interact with.

If you are a social gambler than I would suggest that you try and interact with people outside of the casino. A great way to do this would be to get a gym membership. Another way would be to volunteer some time to community efforts like a local soup kitchen. If you are a religious person, or even if you aren't, joining a local church and attending every Sunday will be beneficial. Church members are always very friendly and accepting. Whatever means you choose, remember that social gambling is not only unhealthy, but it will also leave you broke.

10 Tips To Beat Your Gambling Addiction

2008-10-14T00:29:00.002-04:00

Because people with gambling addictions can get strong sudden urges to gamble, it is important to be ready when these situations occur. Here are 10 tips you can you to help you beat that gambling urge.

10 Tips to Beat Gambling Addiction

1. When the urge hits you, and you feel a very strong urge to gamble, sit down and meditate. Let every thought enter your mind and let it go. After twenty minutes your head will feel surprisingly clear and the urge to gamble will have subsided.

2. Think of all the negative things associated with gambling (debt,obsession, secrets from family and friends)

3. Talk to a family member or friend right away. Make sure it is someone who will talk you out of gambling and not another gambler who might encourage it.

4. Get involved in the community, or another type of club or organization. Sign up for a gym membership, join a yoga class, there are many things you can do to curb your gambling addiction.

5. Talk about it. It is much more helpful to talk to friends, family, or even a therapist about how you are dealing with your emotions and feelings towards gambling. Gambling addiction is a hundred times harder to beat by yourself, so get some help.

6. Make a list of of things in your life that were damaged by your gambling addiction. Read the list once every morning and once before bed.

7. Learn more about gambling addiction. The more you learn, the better you can understand your addiction and beat it. Read the posts on this site, and there are many other sites out there that offer great information as well.

8. Be on high alert for any tiny voice that whispers "if I bet big tonight, I know I can win it all back." This is a number one symptom of gambling addiction.

9. Stay away from alcohol and drugs. Anything that is going to impair your judgment will make you more likely to gamble. Stay away from anything that will intoxicate you until you have completely conquered your gambling addiction.

10. Call every casino in your area and tell them to put you on the black list. It is possible to ban yourself from any casino for one year or longer.

Should Gambling Online Be Illegal?

2008-10-06T04:02:00.004-04:00

Online gambling is the most dangerous form of gambling because of the wide usage of credit card payments and ability to gamble at home 24/7.

This post should have been a long time coming. I pose a serious question to you, my readers. Should gambling online be illegal? There are so many reasons I can think of off the top of my head to support why online gambling should be illegal. Just to name a random few:

-Little to no regulation or oversight from any level of government

Ridiculous, but true. There is literally no oversight for any of these online gambling sites (party poker, ultimate bet, etc). This allows them to easily ripoff anyone who plays, even though they claim they use "automated randomization programs." Yeah right, randomize my foot. Since there is no oversight however, we are forced to take their word for it.

-Encourages people to use credit cards as primary form of payment

This is perhaps the biggest reason I feel that gambling online should be illegal. Accepting payment by credit card makes it very easy for many people to rack up huge credit card debts if they have an addictive personality. This in turn can ruin your credit, and put yourself or family in a financial crisis.

It is a crazy world we live in, where gambling online isn't illegal, and with all the major flaws I would hope that none of you would play either. Take it from me, online gambling is trouble. Because you it is on the computer, hands generally go much quicker making it the perfect combination for debt and financial stress. Just don't play.

GamblingAnon Welcomes Indiana And Massachusettes!

2008-10-03T17:19:00.002-04:00

Well my friends, it seems this little website of mine is beginning to gain some recognition and legitimacy. I would like to take this time to personally thank the Indiana and Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling for their link to this website. Together I know that we can spread the word regarding the many negative effects of gambling and get help to those trying to quit.

As a side note, I am still gambling free and my urges to gamble are drastically subsiding in many thanks to the information I have learned while building this website. I haven't even gambled online, which is a HUGE step for me since I am at my computer a lot! Stay tuned for more updates and information, and thank you again Indiana and Massachusetts!

Internet Gambling Addiction Is The Most Dangerous

2008-09-29T15:15:00.008-04:00

Internet Gambling Addiction Is The Most Dangerous

Cool fact: if you add all the letters up on the roulette wheel, the final total is 666.

It is encouraging when trying to quit gambling to hear other gambling addiction stories, so here is a personal one from yours truly.

There was a time, many moons ago where I took little interest in gambling, casinos, or anything related. Then, almost out of the blue, the popularity of Texas Hold'em exploded thanks to television and within months everyone was playing the game. Tired of hearing everyone talk about the stupid game I started playing so I too could get in on a bit of the action. "Poker isn't even gambling" everyone would say. "There are so many suckers online, I make $100 dollars a day" claimed others. So finally I gave in and started playing with friends online.

Well poker was fine and well for a bit, but it just wasn't my game. There was too much waiting involved and too many players at a table I got sick and tired of always having to wait my turn, and usually folding hand after hand until I finally got something playable. It was then that I increased my online gambling and made the jump to Blackjack. From there it got even worse. After losing close to $1000 I was ready to quit for good. It was then that my buddy suggested card counting, "the ultimate way to bring down the casino" he claimed. Needless to say, card counting grew tiresome and the edge it gave was so minimal I would still lose quite often since I didn't have a big bankroll like card counting requires. Soon enough, I stopped counting cards all together and just focused on basic strategy. By this point I was already playing in the casinos every couple of day and my addiction to gambling had just begun. I started out winning unusually often which made me think that I was invincible. Within a few more weeks every couple of days turned into everyday and the dealers started getting to know me which was very embarrassing for me. It wasn't long before my friends started calling me the "rambling gambling man."

Gambling Addiction- Feelings of Suicide

2008-09-10T18:06:00.005-04:00

Has your gambling problem gotten to the point where you have considered suicide as the only option?

Being in debt can be very stressful, especially when collection agencies are harassing you every day. If your gambling debt is out of control and you are contemplating suicide as an easy out, take the following steps immediately:

• Contact your local emergency department right away.
• Dispose of anything that could be easily used to end your life (firearms, medications, etc).
• Talk to a family member or friend to tell them how you are feeling. Be honest about the extent of your gambling problem and debt.
• See if there is a mental distress hot-line in your area.
• Tell your doctor about what's going on--again, mention the problem gambling.
• Abstain from any alcohol or drugs.
• Talk to a spiritual adviser.

Remember that even though your problems may seem big, millions of others are going through the exact same thing or worse. Millions of Americans have a gambling problem, not to mention the millions more worldwide. Many people are in debt, and collection agencies wouldn't exist if there was no demand for them. You have already given gambling so much, don't let it take your life.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Do You Have A Gambling Addiction?

2008-09-10T18:05:00.005-04:00

Do you have a gambling problem? Take this test to find out.

1. In the last 12 months was there any time where you gambled more than you wanted to?

Yes___ No___

2. In the last 12 months, have you lied to others about your gambling losses to your family or friends?

Yes___ No___

3. In the last 12 months, have you ever felt guilty when gambling or thinking about gambling?

Yes___ No___

4. In the last 12 months, have people expressed any concerns that you might have a gambling problem?

Yes___ No___

5. In the past 12 months, have you had money arguments that centered on
gambling?

Yes___ No___

* Two or more “yes” responses indicate that you probably have a gambling problem. Get help today. Gambling is an addiction that can be beat with will power and sheer determination. I have beat gambling and you can too.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Gambling Clinics

2008-09-08T23:39:00.005-04:00

Although often expensive, gambling clinics are worth every penny if you can afford it. Professional help, seclusion, and cognitive therapy are key to the recovery process.

If you have a gambling problem that you can't shake on your own, I would strongly suggest the services of a gambling clinic if you can afford one. The benefits to a gambling clinic is that you are effectively removed from all forms of gambling while in treatment. Another advantage that gambling clinics offer is one on one therapy combined with group therapy. This is great because group therapy can be especially helpful as you will see that there are other problem gamblers who suffer from the same addiction as you. Although gambling clinics can be expensive, they are usually worth the price. In fact, sometimes the prices can even be quite reasonable.

Perhaps the best part about gambling clinics is that therapy is tailored for the individual since everyone gambles for different reasons (excitement, escape from problems, etc). As a result, this type of therapy has a high success rate. Problem gamblers can cure their addiction as soon as they find different ways to think about gambling. Clinics will help the gambler achieve this.

If therapy is too expensive to be considered an option than please keep reading the materials on my website because I know first hand, the devastating effects that problem gambling can have; not only on the gambler, but his friends and family as well.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 6

2008-09-05T03:30:00.004-04:00

If you are seriously considering quitting your gambling addiction, bookmarking this website is a great place to start.

Quitting Gambling In The Long Run

Although gambling urges will subside over time, I always say, "once a problem gambler, always problem gambler". What I mean by this is even if you have gone a full year without gambling (which is terrific by the way), gambling habits and old urges can return in a flash. Here are a few things you should really look out for to make sure your problem gambling never comes back:

Financial worries- If you have recurring thoughts of debt (money, credit card debt, mortgages), I strongly suggest seeking the help of a professional credit counselor. These fears might lead you to gamble or cause unhealthy thinking patterns or beliefs about gambling to return. Remember that thinking about such things as luck, or betting strategies are signs of the problem gambler.

Excessive alcohol- Alcohol can greatly affect your decision to gamble. Alcohol use can impair your judgment resulting in bad decisions like insane bets that you can't afford, or increased gambling frequency. If you start drinking you will soon be back on the road towards being a problem gambler again.

Feelings of boredom- You may well find that since you have quit gambling there is a lot of free time on your hands. This may result in boredom which could trigger your gambling problem to emerge. To counter these feelings of boredom, take up a sport or hobby and make new friends with people who do not gamble.

Conflicts with other people- Conflicts with those close to you can trigger thoughts and urges about gambling. This is why you should think daily about the repercussions your problem gambling has had on those close to you. Remember that relationships will improve over time once you have dedicated yourself seriously to quitting gambling.

If you can follow all of these instructions diligently that I have given you, I will guarantee that you too can rid yourself from problem gambling. Take one day at a time, confide in others, and repair those broken relationships. Set reasonable and attainable goals, and look forward to a brighter tomorrow.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 5

2008-09-05T02:58:00.005-04:00

People who say that quitting gambling is easy, are simply ignorant.

Healing The Relationships Damaged By Your Gambling Problem

Now that you are on the path to recovery, it is time to focus some of your efforts on healing the damaged relationships of those closest to you. It is important to resolve any sense of betrayal the family members may feel as they will be your lifelines in helping you quit gambling. Certainly one effective method to dissolve these strained feelings would be seriously dedicating yourself to quitting gambling--as you are right now. For others however, this might not be enough. For these people I recommend professional family or couples therapy to resolve these deep emotions. If you are a problem gambler who has recently confessed to his family his addiction, here are some of the things you can expect for your family:

High stress; greatly worried about the future. In the back of their minds they fear that you may not be able to recover from your gambling problem;
Depression over the current emotional and financial state of the family;
Anxious over financial matters; wonder if they will ever recover the loss;
Reduced trust and negative emotions toward the problem gambler.

Although this seems like a tough road ahead, and it is, you must remember that it is the right thing to do to disclose these things to your family rather than keep them secret. Keeping your gambling addiction secret is actually the most selfish thing you can do because your the stress will drive you to gamble further and your debts will continue to grow. You need loving people to ease the quitting process. Can you think of one family that hasn't had its share of problems in the world? I can't.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 4

2008-09-03T04:05:00.007-04:00

I quit gambling and so can you. Half of the battle is will power and motivation.

Tip #1

To Control A Gambling Addiction, Monitor Your Thoughts

People with compulsive gambling addictions all share similar thought processes. One thought pattern in particular, is very dangerous. This is the belief that gambling is more than a game of random chance, with outcomes that can be completely controlled if you have the right "system".

These thoughts are an indicator of problem gambling and if you recognize it at anytime, push it out of your head immediately. Here are some more thoughts that a person with a gambling problem should look out for:

If you believe that you can control gambling outcomes with the power of your mind,
If losing, you believe that you have done something to upset lady luck,
You believe that some numbers or objects are naturally lucky,
You make gambling decisions or place bets on gut instincts and feel that intuition is the best way to gamble,
Have fantasies of being a high roller and winning all the time,
Continue playing, even when losing as you are convinced luck will return to you,
Have gambling rituals and believe that they will affect the outcome of the game.

Believing that gambling can be controlled is the most dangerous and destructive belief that a problem gambler can have.

Tip # 2

Managing Your Gambling Addiction With Mental Coping

1. Ignore any gambling thoughts as soon as they spring up. If you give these thoughts too much attention it will only make them harder to ignore. The best method is to simply recognize the thought, and then release it out of mind.

2. Doubt your gambling beliefs. Read up on the statistical odds of winning and understand that the game is influenced by percentages, not luck. Doubt your thought on controlled outcomes immediately by countering them with logical informed thoughts by educating yourself.

3. Challenge your gambling thoughts. Refute them, argue them, look for weaknesses in their validity. Over time you will see that these belief patterns are just silly and aren't based on any real logic.

How do I know this is true?
Do I have to act on my belief, even if it is true?
What's the danger if I act on this thought?

Tip #3

Managing Your Gambling Problem With Behavioral Coping

1. In a situation where you find yourself becoming tempted you to gamble, get out.

As soon as you recognize old gambling thoughts entering your mind, take yourself out of the situation. By taking the action of leaving, the thoughts which arose when you were in a gambling situation will subside.

2. When your impulsive urges to gamble become too strong, talk them out.

Actively rationalize these thoughts aloud with a trusted friend or family member. Often enough, just hearing these thoughts will make you realize just how silly, powerless, and delusional they really are.

3. Resist gambling related fantasies

Actually, if you fantasize only about losing money while gambling I would encourage you to continue. Remembering the negative experiences will surely make you less likely to gamble. It is the positive gambling fantasies that I am talking about. As soon as you realize any fantasies popping into your head about "winning the jackpot", or being the "high roller" at the casino, interrupt these thoughts immediately by thinking about something else. The reason for this is that our thoughts gain more momentum and power over us the longer we pay attention to them. By ignoring these gambling fantasies through thought interruption , you can greatly decrease your gambling urges.

4. Keep yourself busy with other activities

Pretty straightforward tip; engage your mind in other activities and it will have less time and energy to think about gambling. Take up a hobby or get involved in some sort of club that allows you to socially interact.

5. If the urge to gamble becomes too strong, talk to someone

If you feel like you are about to have a gambling relapse confide in someone who is close to you or a professional addictions counselor. Make sure it is someone you can trust to talk you back down to reality so that you're gambling problem won't return in a time of crisis.

6. Put your gambling beliefs to test

If all else fails and the urge to gamble is simply too strong, play your game without betting any money as a chance to test your theories. Once you see how often you are losing, your urges will quickly dissipate.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 3

2008-09-03T03:32:00.002-04:00

Quitting any addiction is hard, gambling is no different.

Being Aware In Gambling Situations

A big step towards quitting gambling is awareness. What I mean by this is you should be fully aware of the situations and factors that influence you to gamble.

Be Aware of situations that might tempt you to gamble.

Be Aware of the consequences that may occur should you gamble.

Be Aware of the other ways you can combat these urges and temptations without gambling.

Problem gamblers have deeply embedded habits that are automatic and impulsive. Thus, someone with a sever gambling addiction might feel as though it is outside of their control. This is not the case. By becoming aware of the factors that motivate you to gamble, and the situations that increase your temptation to gamble, you will find that it becomes much easier to control your decisions. This can only be done through awareness.

Dealing With Gambling Situations

You will surely find throughout your struggle to quit gambling that there will be situations where you will have to make a choice between gambling and not gambling. There are two coping mechanisms that exist to help you stay on track with your program.

Behavioral Coping- (Action oriented form of coping)

Avoid situations where you might be tempted to gamble.
Change your travel routes if they take you past places where you have an urge to gamble.
Apply the principle "out of sight, out of mind".
Ask the casino to put you on the exclusion list.
Call someone you trust if you feel the gambling itch.
Always bring someone you trust with you if you decide to enter a gambling situation.
Avoid other problem gamblers or people you think will tempt you to gamble.
Plan activities other than gambling and make time for other interests or hobbies.
Don't bring all your money with you if you decide to gamble. Set your limit beforehand and bring only your that.
Do not bring credit cards into places where there will be gambling.
Spend more time with family and friends.

Mental Coping- (Changing your mental perspective to cope with a situation)

Distract your mind. Think about anything except gambling. This can be done by listening to music, social interaction with friends and family, concentrating on the task at hand.
Learn to recognize thought patterns and stop any bad ones before they grow and develop into an urge.
Remember all the bad things that gambling has brought you.
Remember all the positive things that have returned to your life by not gambling.
Contemplate on the concept of free-will, the idea that you always have a choice whether to gamble or not.
Remind yourself that gambling is designed for you to lose money.
Weight the benefits of gambling vs. not gambling.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 2

2008-09-02T05:32:00.003-04:00

If you are struggling quitting gambling, don't give up! You are not alone.

What Role Does Gambling Play In Your Life?

Like almost anything, gambling is not entirely negative although it certainly may seem so to a problem gambler who is down on his luck. In fact, there are many people who enjoy gambling simply for entertainment and social purposes. Even for the problem gambler, it was the enjoyable experiences that led him/her to continue gambling. It is important to have a realistic frame of mind when trying to change your gambling habits. This means being aware of all aspects of gambling, good and bad.

What is the function or meaning of gambling in your life?

The Positive Aspects of Gambling

What do you enjoy most about gambling? What positive feelings make you want to continue gambling? (The rush gambling provides? A temporary escape from the real world?)

The Negative Aspects of Gambling

How has gambling negatively affected your life? (Do you spend too much money gambling? Has your gambling problem deteriorated your relationship with your family and friends?)

The Pros of Abstinence

What are the benefits of not gambling? (More money? Ability to pay down debts? Improved relationships with those closest to you?)

The Cons of Abstinence

What is the negative side to not gambling? What will you miss the most? (The chance of winning money?)

After you have contemplated on these things it is time to understand why you want to quit gambling as this will keep you motivated. To do this, simply follow these 3 steps:

1. Examine all of the consequences the behavior or habit has caused in your life

A problem gambler rarely quits on a spur of the moment impulse. Long lasting change is much more likely for someone who has fully considered the consequences an action has had on their life and how it has negatively affected them. This can only be done through contemplation and personal reflection.

2. Does gambling conflicts with your self-intrinsic values?

Are you a religious person and a problem gambler? This would be an example of an inner conflict. These are very powerful motivators for change so I would suggest you find as many inner conflicts as you can and write them all down on a piece of paper.

3. Set reasonable goals that are realistic and achievable

I really can't stress this one enough. If you think a goal is too big, shoot lower. Failing to achieve your own goals will only result in guilt, shame, and poor self-esteem. All of these will likely drive you to gamble even more.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Quitting Your Gambling Addiction - Part 1

2008-09-02T05:09:00.003-04:00

Quitting gambling will instantly improve your well-being.

Abstinence vs. Controlled Gambling

Before getting off of gambling, it is of utmost importance to decide which route you will take to quit--abstinence or controlled gambling. Personally, I recommend abstinence for anyone considers themselves to be a problem gambler but I also recognize that there are many types of people in the world and that one way might not work for everyone. That being said, here are 8 simple questions to help you determine how you begin freeing yourself from your gambling addiction.

1. Has my gambling become a serious problem?

2. Have I already tried to moderate or completely stop gambling altogether and failed?

3. Has gambling hurt me or my family financially?

4. Have I been ordered by a higher authority (employer, court system) to seek help for my gambling?

5. Is frequent gambling putting my personal relationships at risk?

6. Do I gamble with intent to win back money or to pay down financial debts?

7. Am I always thinking about gambling and believe that there are tricks to beat the system?

8. Do I use gambling to escape from real life problems or feelings?

If you have answered yes to any single on of these questions I would highly recommend that you choose the abstinence route for quitting gambling because you are at a higher risk for problem gambling.

REMEMBER!

If you gamble for the purposes of winning back lost money, you are at serious risk of worsening your problem. Please just stop gambling altogether if this describes you.

The Abstinence Route

The first step towards quitting gambling is to set a realistic and attainable goal (ex: "I will avoid all forms of gambling for one month"). Start with small goals, and then reward yourself upon achieving them. Achieved your initial goal? Set another one. Maybe you will make it the same goal or perhaps you feel that you can achieve an even more ambitious goal. The goals you set and the decisions you make are ultimately up to you as long as they are effectively getting you off gambling (or at least greatly reducing as we all have slip-ups from time to time). The most important thing to remember if you do have a gambling relapse is to not give up your goal altogether. Just accept it for what it is and remember that everyone is human and makes mistakes. Then restart your goal and strive to achieve it all over again.

***A good way to keep yourself motivated is to keep track of your finances. Look at all the extra money you have! Amazing how gambling sponges it all up isn't it?

Guidelines for Low-Risk Gambling

If you answered no to all of the 8 questions above you are likely a low-risk gambler. Here are some guidelines to help ensure that you remain low-risk and hopefully prevent you from ever developing a gambling addiction.

1. If you can't afford it, don't bet it

In fact, plan ahead of time how much money you plan to wager or even better, just bring the amount you intend to spend with you and leave your wallet at home.

2. Never gamble with the intention of making profit

Remember that the house always has the edge and that there is no system to this day that has proven effective in consistently winning you money. Gambling should always be thought of as a form of entertainment. Low-risk gamblers expect to lose, but enjoy the game anyways. Winning is simply considered a bonus.

3. Pay attention to how much time and money you spend gambling

A very common issue with problem gamblers is that they will often disconnect from reality and pay no attention to the amount of money they have lost, or the time that they have played. A low-risk gambler always knows exactly how much they have wagered and can stop when their limit has been reached. Without keeping track, gambling addictions can develop very easily.

4. Never borrow money to gamble

If you need to borrow money to gamble, you shouldn't be gambling, period.
This goes in part with viewing gambling as a form of entertainment. Borrowing money off friends, credit cards, or future paychecks puts you at high-risk for a gambling addiction.

5. Know when NOT to gamble

If you find yourself frequently exceeding your spending limits or your personal time limits set for yourself, consider quitting gambling all together. Even low-risk gamblers can develop a gambling addiction.

6. Do not use gambling to escape from stress or emotions

Gambling should be for entertainment purposes alone. If you find yourself frequenting the casino as a way to escape from reality, quit gambling immediately. If you gamble to cope with real life problems, seek professional help right away.

7. Never try to win your money back

A low-risk gambler expects to lose and sees it as part of the game. Remember, losing is just paying for the right to gamble.

Choose Your Destiny-

Abstinence-

I (name_________________) will make it my ultimate goal to achieve complete abstinence from gambling. I also recognize that gambling has negatively affected my well-being. I understand that I may choose to change my goal at a later date.

Signed: __________________________

Controlled Gambling

I (name_______________) will always gamble responsibly. I will set limits on the amount of time I gamble, and I will keep track of the amount of money I spend gambling.

I will gamble no more than ________________ (day, month, year)

I will spend no more than $________________ (day, month, year)

Signed:___________________________

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Has Your Gambling Problem Changed You?

2008-09-01T00:29:00.001-04:00

I remember a time where I was hitting up the casino every night for six or seven hours at a time. I would bet big--sometimes hundred dollar hands, just to lose it all. Once in awhile I would win big, but as I gambled more and more my luck just seemed to become worse. I call this "the gambler's curse". This isn't a curse at all of course, but a simple ignorance to the fact that the house has the edge, every time.

The house has the edge in every game, you will always lose in the long run, get over it

What I really wanted to talk about is how gambling changed my personality and general outlook towards life during my "peak years".

If you were to ask anyone who knew me back when I was chronically addicted to gambling, they would tell you that I was crazed. Anytime someone would have a conversation with me gambling would always be the topic. It wouldn't even matter what the conversation was about! As a result, my friends all dubbed me "gamblore".

I was also very aggressive during my period of gambling addiction. Anytime someone would even remotely suggest that I might have a gambling problem I would snap with aggressive and often hurtful comments towards the ones I loved. The pain I have caused my family has hurt me deeply, in addition to the pain and suffering I have caused myself.

If you are reading this and have a gambling addiction, please listen to my words before it is too late. Gambling is bad news. Take it from me, I have first hand experience. I have lost so much money to credit cards and my debt is way over my head. I lost $30,000 and I'm only 23. Debt collectors hound me, my salary sucks, and my credit is literally shot. Gambling has ruined my life. The good news is, I'm still young, I have time to change this and fix my mistakes. Many of you readers might be people just about ready for retirement. I plead to these people especially, don't gamble.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

The Effects Of Problem Gambling

2008-08-29T03:54:00.001-04:00

Why Can’t They Just Stop?

Take it from me, when a person gets really into gambling like I did, the amount of time and money you are actually spending on gambling becomes oblivious to you. You literally feel like you are living in a different world where only one thing matters, the casino. A person with a gambling problem will slip further and further from reality, ignoring all their responsibilities and developing strong defense mechanisms for their gambling addiction. I would become fierce whenever one of my friends suggested I might have a problem. In fact, it almost destroyed our friendship. It wasn't until then that I started to re-examine my gambling habits.

Some people try to cut down and even stop gambling, but many have failed. The gambler is in a constant love-hate relationship with gambling. On the one hand, they know they are causing family problems and they feel deep guilt over this issue. But on the other hand the urge is to great to resist. Gamblers crave a good rush. Extreme gamblers are in such a state of depression and denial that they cannot accept what they have lost on gambling. They hold deep hope that they will hit a big win and get all the money they lost back. They are also in fear that their spouse or other family members will discover the amount of debt caused by their gambling problem. They keep on living the dream that a big win is coming and that it will solve all their problems.

The Impact On Families

The most common problem families face is financial. Because a gambling problem can be hidden for so long, families are often shocked when they learn how much money is gone. Sometimes everything is gone. One can only imagine the fear and betrayal these families must feel. Gamblers often face isolation in the family due to the fact that he is seen as distrustful.

Physical And Mental Health

Problem gamblers often suffer many other disorders, especially anxiety and depression. Added stress manifests itself in headaches, muscles pains, and other symptoms depending on the individual.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

Gambling Addiction- Influencing Factors

2008-08-29T03:25:00.001-04:00

An interesting document I read on some of the factors which predict problem gambling. I thought I would list a few for you...

You win huge in your early gambling history
Money problems
Recent loss such as divorce, death, job loss or retirement
loneliness and chronic boredom
lack of direction in your life or limited hobbies
a pattern of risk taking or impulsive behaviour
using gambling or drugs to avoid or cope with negative feelings or events
mental health problems, particularly depression and anxiety
experience of abuse or trauma
a personal history of or current problems with alcohol, other drugs, gambling or overspending
a family history of problems with alcohol, other drugs, gambling or overspending
mistaken beliefs about the odds of winning at gambling
your preferred form of gambling is easily available and accessible
not monitoring your wins and losses.

If any of these apply to you then you are at an increased risk to gambling addiction.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling

ANOTHER Gambling Relapse

2008-08-29T03:15:00.001-04:00

My fellow readers, I am sorry to report that I have failed you once again in my attempts to keep clean from gambling. Tonight I lost $50 to online poker. It is the second time in eight months that I have gambled as well as the second time I have lost my money. On the plus side, I did have more money in my accounts to dip into but I was able to control myself before taking out any more money. This is something I have never achieved before as controlling my gambling budget has always been a huge problem for me at the casino. My gambling therapist told me not to bash myself for the few slip-ups, as eight months is amazing. The advice he gave me was to restart back at zero and see if I can beat my record of eight months. So here it goes... day one.

GamblingAnon- Discover all the negative effects of gambling