How to Overcome Compulsive Gambling

Gambling comes in many forms -- from $1 lottery tickets to poker tables that cost thousands of dollars to play. While intended to be harmless entertainment, gambling can turn into an addiction for some people. Compulsive gambling not only affects personal finances, but it can cause family problems and, in some cases, may even tear a family apart. As with any other type of addiction, compulsive gambling requires support and a major change in the way of thinking when it comes to the effects of gambling.

Instructions

• 1

  Sit down and record all the money spent and lost on gambling since the problem began. A lifestyle change may seem more important when the total amount of money wasted on gambling is right in front of your face.

• 2

  Tell family members and close friends about the gambling problem. Ask them to spend as much time with you as possible and keep an eye on your habits to ensure gambling is not possible. This may seem like a lack of freedom at first, but it's often helpful to have guidance and restrictions from loved ones.

• 3

  Take up a hobby such working out or any type of craft. Gambling may become less important if your mind is set on a different task.

• 4

  Join a gambling support group to get help from others with the same problem. This type of help can be encouraging, even from complete strangers.

• 5

  Turn over all your finances and bank account information to a trusted family member or friend. Ask them to be in charge of paying your bills with your own money to ensure every bill gets paid. Also ask for a closely monitored weekly allowance to pay for groceries and other necessary household items.

• 6

  Visit a psychiatrist as a last resort. Gambling may be a result of emotional or mental disorders such as depression or obsessive compulsive disorder. In such cases, regular counseling and medication may be necessary to overcome compulsive gambling.