Gambling disorders are not formally recognized as addictions by the DSM-5, there may be certain steps that you need to take to address your addiction effectively. Follow these four steps to stop gambling in sites like 22Bet Nigeria and address problem gambling with treatment at home or elsewhere.
Step 1: Admit you have a problem
Before you can stop gambling, you have to admit that it’s a problem. This doesn’t mean being ashamed of your behavior or viewing yourself as a bad person. But coming to terms with how gambling affects your life, as well as those around you, is essential for self-improvement.
Step 2: Rebuild your confidence
You can’t simply stop gambling and expect everything to be hunky-dory. You need a plan for moving forward that rebuilds your confidence, fills your life with other meaningful pursuits, and protects you from future temptation.
To do that, you need to figure out what led you to start gambling in the first place. Is it stress relief or did it have something to do with a life event or period? The more self-aware you are about why you started gambling in excess, the easier it will be for you to get back on track once an unhealthy pattern starts up again.
Step 3: Create a safe environment
There is nothing inherently wrong with gambling. Sometimes they turn to friends or family members for money, which can result in hurt feelings, resentment, or financial hardship. If you have a friend or family member who gambles excessively, offer your support without enabling his behavior by giving him money or paying his debts. And find out what other services are available in your community that might help address his behavior (for example, Gamblers Anonymous).
Step 4: Accept support from friends and family
Many people are more than willing to support you in your desire for abstinence. Find these people, no matter how difficult it might be, and be open with them about your struggles. Keeping things inside only makes matters worse.
If anyone tries to tell you that gambling is a victimless crime or harmless pastime, remind yourself of what we’ve already discussed about addiction — about how it is cunning, baffling, and powerful.
Conclusion
Gambling addiction can ruin people’s lives, relationships, finances, and careers. You could be struggling with problem gambling if you’re jeopardizing your family’s financial security or abandoning your responsibilities at work to continue gambling.
But no matter how much you gamble, there’s always hope for those who want to stop gambling and regain control of their lives. Our tips and resources on how to stop gambling and address problem gambling are designed to help you quit gambling, heal the pain it caused in your life and prevent relapse by addressing its underlying causes.
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