Taking part in gambling can be a source of entertainment, but for some people, it can also be a problem. If you find yourself using it as a source of stress, or if you start feeling as though you have to gamble to have a good time, you might be in need of help.
Fortunately, there are several types of treatment available for those who are in need of help. Some therapies are free and confidential. You can get advice on how to stop gambling, how to deal with family members who are affected by it, and how to cope with the consequences of gambling. You can even join a peer support group to share your experiences and learn from others.
The National Gambling Helpline is a great place to start. The line is free and open to anyone. You can call at 800-662-HELP (4357) and speak to a counsellor about any gambling problems you may be having. You can also talk to a friend who has experience with gambling problems. Depending on where you live, there may be a local helpline or an online service to help you.
You can also consider joining a 12-step recovery program, such as Gamblers Anonymous. This program is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous and includes former addicts who are committed to helping other people with their problem.
You might also try working through issues through family therapy. The support of your family can be vital in helping you recover from gambling. It doesn’t mean you should micromanage your loved one’s impulses, but you should let them know that you are there to help them.
You should also set up boundaries around your finances. If you are the family’s money manager, you should make sure that you do not give the problem gambler any free access to the bank account or credit card. You should also be sure to close any online betting accounts. You should keep a small amount of cash, and let another person handle the rest of your finances. This way, you can be sure to stay accountable and not let the problem gambler relapse.
You can also try taking up physical activity, as this can be a source of relief for boredom and stress. You can also work with a counselor to learn how to cope with the effects of gambling. You can also volunteer for a cause you believe in, or go to an education class.
If you are a family member of someone who is gambling, you may want to consider contacting a problem gambling agency. This can be a very helpful way to find out what steps you can take to help your loved one. You might also want to reach out to other family members and friends. You can help a friend or family member who is experiencing problems with gambling by calling the National Gambling Helpline, or finding out about the various organizations that offer counseling for gambling problems.
