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Tips to Stop Gambling

These days gambling is more prevalent then ever, even in states where gambling is illegal. With online poker sites you can easily gamble online. This addiction can be as harmful as drug or alcohol addictions, just in a different way. Stopping gambling is as difficult to stop as drugs, but can be done.

  1. Decide to Stop

    • Make the decision to stop gambling once and for all. Easier said then done, of course, but it can be done. Much like overcoming alcohol or drug addiction, the decision to not gamble must be seared into the addict's mind and he must truly want to quit. This is the first step to overcoming your addiction, especially gambling. Tell yourself--promise yourself--every morning that you will not gamble. Every time you feel that urge to gamble, think of this promise you have made to yourself.

    Cut Off Access to Money

    • Cut yourself off from the ability to access large amounts of money. Give your credit cards to your spouse or someone you can trust to hide them from you. Withdraw only a set amount of cash each week, that you are going to use for necessities. Tell all of your friends not to loan you money, for any reason, ever.

    Find a New, Healthy Obsession

    • Find something new to become obsessed with other then the thrill of winning or losing bets. Start training to run a marathon over the next six months, sticking to a serious jogging and exercise schedule. Continue a collection you started but had been distracted by due to your gambling habit. Remodel a room of your house or do a landscaping project that can get your hands dirty and take up the majority of your time when you aren't working.

    Cancel Your Internet

    • Cancel your Internet for a time, at least until you can get over the initial withdrawal from gambling addiction. It is too easy to play online poker or make online sports bets. You may have access to the Internet at work, but you're usually working during that time.

    Seek Out Help

    • If self-help ideas aren't helping you to truly stop gambling, then consider a counselor or 12-step program before the gambling addiction ruins your life. Gambler's Anonymous is a 12-step program that provides support, encouragement and guidance to help you quit gambling. Your friends and family can support your efforts. Let them know about your problem and that you need their help. Don't feel shame; gambling can be as powerful an addiction as any.

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