How To Regain Control From Online Gaming

Online gambling has brought convenience to bettors all over the globe. With the introduction of online gambling sites and apps, bettors no longer need to step out of their houses to place bets on their favorite sports games. However, this convenience comes with a whole lot of disadvantages, one of which is gambling addiction. Recent studies have shown that over 2.5 million adults in the United States have a good chance of having severe gambling addiction, which is pretty alarming.

This article will serve as a guide to how you can break from addiction and regain control of online gambling. 

Understanding Online Gambling Addiction

Online gambling addiction is a compulsive urge to gamble despite negative consequences. Like other forms of addiction, it is complex and can have profound consequences on an individual’s life. One of the leading factors of online gambling addiction is the accessibility and immersive nature of online gambling platforms. With 24/7 availability and engaging features like flashy graphics and constant rewards, online gambling can trigger the brain’s reward system, reinforcing addictive behaviors. 

Beyond financial loss, online gambling addiction can impact mental health and strain relationships. Recognizing these factors is crucial in addressing the root causes of addiction and seeking effective recovery solutions.

Taking Steps Towards Recovery

Here are some easy steps you can take to help you regain control from online gambling:

• Recognize You Have a Problem

The first step is acknowledging that you have an issue with your betting habits. Most people live in denial and continue without help, worsening the situation. Be honest with yourself about the consequences of your gambling habits, both financially and emotionally. Some visible signs of online gambling addiction include:

• Financial problems: Mounting debt, using money meant for bills on gambling, or borrowing to gamble.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Skipping work or school, neglecting family or friends, sacrificing sleep for gambling.
• Chasing losses: Feeling the need to win back lost money, leading to further gambling.

The signs above can help you detect or identify when gambling is a problem.

1. Identify your triggers and urges.

After coming to terms with the fact that you have a gambling habit, the next step is to identify and track your triggers and urges.

Reflect on the situations, emotions, or thoughts that make you crave gambling. Common triggers may include stress, boredom, loneliness, the thrill of winning, or financial strain.

By identifying your triggers and urges, you now have a cheat sheet to help you manage your gambling addictions more effectively.

• Take Proactive Measures

Instead of relying on hope for improvement, actively taking steps such as a prolonged break from gambling or betting can accelerate the recovery process and redirect your focus towards more positive endeavors.

Strategies for Regaining Control

Some strategies to help you regain control of your gambling habits include:

• Set limits and boundaries

Setting limits and boundaries is essential for regaining control over online gambling. You can begin by setting specific limits on the money you intend to bet each time. For example, you could set a limit of $5 for betting and stick to it. Whether you feel confident about the upcoming game or have correctly predicted several others, sticking to your limit is essential. Leave when you’ve exhausted your $5. 

You can also set a limit for the time you want to spend. Let’s say 10 minutes; Set an alarm that goes off in 10 minutes, and immediately the alarm rings; exit the site or app and do something else.

• Practice Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a proactive measure where individuals voluntarily ban themselves from accessing gambling websites or venues. 

Most online gaming software providers offer responsible gaming programs with self-exclusion options to help players learn how to savor the excitement without falling into the gambling trap. By enrolling in a self-exclusion program, you can restrict your access to the site for a time, reducing the temptation to gamble impulsively.

1. Take a break and find alternative activities.

This strategy allows individuals to distance themselves from the triggers and temptations of gambling while exploring new interests and hobbies. 

By taking a break from gambling and filling your time with activities that provide fulfillment and enjoyment, such as exercise, art, or spending time with loved ones, you can redirect your energy towards positive experiences, automatically reducing the desire to gamble. 

• Manage Triggers and Urges

As stated earlier, managing triggers and urges is a crucial strategy in overcoming online gambling addiction. Here’s how it works:

• Identify Your Triggers: These are situations, emotions, or physical sensations that make you crave gambling. They can include boredom, stress, loneliness, financial problems, or even being around certain people or places.
• Develop Coping Mechanisms: Once you recognize your triggers, you can develop healthy strategies to deal with them. For example, if boredom triggers gambling, plan alternative activities to fill your free time, like taking a walk, reading a book, or spending time with friends. If being around certain people or places triggers you, consider avoiding them until you can resist the urge to gamble even when you’re not around them.

By proactively managing triggers and urges, individuals can weaken the power of cravings and reduce the likelihood of relapse, ultimately regaining control over their gambling behavior.

• Seek professional help

Seeking professional help is a crucial step for many people struggling with online gambling addiction who are going through depression. Here’s why:

• Expertise and Guidance: Therapists and counselors specializing in gambling addiction have the knowledge and experience to help you understand the underlying causes of your addiction and develop effective strategies for recovery.
• Support System: Professional help can provide a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your struggles without judgment. This can be invaluable for maintaining motivation and staying on track with your recovery journey.
• Treatment Options: Professionals can assess your needs and recommend a tailored treatment plan. This may include individual therapy, group therapy, or even medication-assisted treatment in some cases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How do I know if I am addicted to online gambling?

Common signs of addiction include financial problems due to gambling, neglecting responsibilities, chasing losses, and inability to control or stop gambling behavior.

• What are common triggers for online gambling urges?

Common triggers include stress, boredom, loneliness, financial difficulties, and exposure to gambling-related stimuli such as advertisements or online promotions.

• How can I prevent relapse?

Strategies for preventing relapse include:

• Identifying triggers.
• Developing coping mechanisms.
• Seeking support from peers or professionals.
• Maintaining a strong commitment to recovery.

• Is professional help necessary for recovery from gambling addiction?

While some individuals may be able to recover on their own, professional help dramatically increases the likelihood of successful recovery. Therapists, counselors, and support groups offer valuable guidance, support, and resources tailored to the individual’s needs.

Conclusion

It is possible to regain control of online gambling addiction. You can break free from its grip and build a fulfilling life by recognizing the signs, setting limits, seeking support, and finding healthy alternatives. 

Ashley Grace

Ashley Grasse is a research writer and casino entertainment expert. She’s interested in game theory and strategy. Ashley writes online casino reviews and blogs about trending topics in the gambling industry. In the years she’s been writing at OUSC, she’s earned a reputation for her deep dives and thorough research. You can also find very quirky and entertaining pieces authored by Ashley.

She loves to the outdoors hiking, kayaking, and a good slot experience in Las Vegas.