Gambling is the act of risking money or something of value for the chance to win more. It can be an enjoyable form of entertainment or a source of stress or depression.
Some people gamble for social rewards or to challenge themselves intellectually. Others gamble to alleviate stress or to take their mind off problems.
If gambling is a problem for you or a family member, it’s important to seek help. A therapist can provide you with the tools you need to overcome your addiction.
Postpone Your Gambling Cravings
When you feel the urge to gamble, resist the urge by imagining the consequences of giving in. Visualize the amount of money you’ll lose and how it will affect your life and those around you.
Distract yourself from the urge with another activity, such as going for a walk or practicing relaxation exercises. This will help you focus on other things and weaken the urge to gamble.
Set Limits on Your Gambling Costs
If you’re a newcomer to gambling, it’s wise to start with a small amount of money you can afford to lose. Once you’ve established a reasonable limit for yourself, never take out more than that amount to get back what you’ve lost.
Avoid Games That Have Odds
The odds in almost all forms of gambling are designed to work against you. It’s much better to stick to games with odds that are more in line with your own skill.