Gambling is definitely one of the best ways to have fun, but also an activity that brings a lot of issues. There is a very fine line that is super-easy to cross and become addicted to. If that happens, you’re in real trouble because it’s much harder to quit once you get stuck. Therefore, the best way is definitely to prevent and control your gambling activity. Of course, that’s much easier to say than to do, but we’ve prepared some tips to help you prevent gambling addiction.
Recognize the Problem
Of course, this is the first thing you have to do. While you may believe that you are in total control, the facts may tell differently. Therefore, it’s always good to put yourself on some kind of a test to get a picture of your current state. You don’t need an expert for that. It’s just enough to check a couple of the following things:
- Spending large amounts of money on gambling
- Gambling with other’s money
- Gambling to “get even”
- Neglecting daily commitments
- Lying to friends and family
- Being preoccupied with gambling in general
Stick With Schedule
One of the first things you must do is create a schedule that includes your daily activities. Of course, a little bit of gambling could be in it, but don’t make a plan that includes hours of gambling every day. Instead, pick a day or two in a week with a relatively short time deducted to gambling. The rest of the day should be filled with other activities, as the best way to prevent this issue is to remain busy all day. Once the daily plan is created, it’s critical to stick with it.
Register for a self-exclusion Program
Depending on where you live, you can also exclude yourself from access to online casinos. In the UK, you have GamStop. In the Netherlands, you have CRUKS. And in Denmark, you have ROFUS, to name a few. But be mindful of the casinos working without licenses, as they are known for bypassing these self-exclusion programs.
New Activities
This is closely related to the previous paragraph. To fill up your day with activities, exploring new ones is essential. Of course, you can revive your old hobby, but there is plenty more to explore. This would include all kinds of activities, such as traveling or doing some physical activity, which is highly beneficial in many ways. Furthermore, you can start volunteering in your community in an animal shelter. Finally, spend as much time as possible with family and friends, especially those who don’t gamble.
Avoid Temptation
If you look around, there are a lot of things that urge us to turn to our weaknesses. For example, watching a football game may make us want to put a bet on the outcome. Also, passing by a casino every day when you’re going home from work affects your mind. So, good advice is to avoid everything that could awaken the weak side of your personality.
Also read Crypto gaming: 13 mistakes that could make you lose your fortune.
Gambling and Its Negative Side
This is definitely one of the best methods to stay away from too much gambling. Just think about all the negative things that happen when you’re gambling. Remember all the bad things you’ve done because of gambling. Those could be things like financial troubles, lies, emotional pain, and other things that made you and your family suffer.
Professional Help
Although this usually comes to mind only when addiction comes, the fact is that there is no reason why you shouldn’t seek professional help before you get too far. Prevention is the key, so the first time you feel you can’t control your gambling activity, get to the therapist or addiction gamblers. Of course, there are numerous support groups around, which can be very helpful as well.
Here are some sources to get help:
