Gambling is an activity that involves risk and chance, usually with the intention of winning something. There is a wide range of gambling games available, and they can be played online or at land-based casinos. Some of the most common types of gambling include poker, slots, sports betting and roulette.
There are many ways to prevent gambling addiction, but if you or someone you know has gambling problems, it’s important to seek help from a professional. You can also use self-help tips, join a support group or try to stop gambling on your own.
How to prevent gambling addiction: 1. Limit your spending.
Having too much money is one of the most common causes of problem gambling. Setting a budget for gambling will help you avoid overspending and ensure that you only gamble when you have the money to spend. This will also prevent you from chasing your losses and losing even more money, which is known as the “gambler’s fallacy.”
2. Stop gambling when you have a financial crisis.
A financial crisis can be a trigger for gambling, so it’s important to learn how to manage your finances and cope with debt before gambling becomes an issue. If you are experiencing a financial crisis, speak to StepChange for free and confidential debt advice.
3. Stop gambling when you are depressed or stressed.
Depression and stress can often be linked to gambling problems, so it’s important to seek help for these underlying issues. If you’re struggling with mental health, talk to your GP or a counsellor about how to manage these conditions.
4. Stop gambling if you are having thoughts of suicide.
There is a link between gambling and thoughts of suicide, so if you are concerned about this you should call 999 or go to A&E. There are also a number of websites that can offer help and support to those who are experiencing mental health issues.
5. Avoid gambling if you are a parent or have children.
Parents of a child with gambling problems should seek advice and support from the child’s doctor, psychologist or other trusted health care professional. The family may also need to take control of the gambling situation, including limiting access to gaming devices and providing financial management.
6. Avoid gambling if you are a partner or friend of a problem gambler.
Gambling can cause relationships to breakdown. This can be very stressful for everyone involved, especially if you are the one who is trying to get the person to stop. If you are a partner or friend of if a loved one has gambling problems, you can find support from the online forums and chat rooms at The National Problem Gambling Helpline.
7. Gambling should be an occasional activity.
It is important to remember that gambling can be a fun way to socialise or escape from worries and stress, but it should never become a habit. It can be a harmful addiction that can have long-term negative consequences for your health, relationships and finances.