How to Stop Gambling on Online Slots
As many of you know, gambling is an addictive behavior. Even though it may not be as dangerous as some other addictions, it still takes a strong amount of self-control to stop. This article aims to provide tips for those who want to quit gambling on online slots.
While the majority of people who gamble don’t have a problem, some do and will find it hard to break the habit. While there are many things you can do on your own to help, it’s important to seek treatment if necessary. In some cases, this will be the only way to gain control over your problem gambling.
Changing your mindset can be one of the most effective ways to quit gambling. It’s a good idea to think of gambling as an entertainment option and not a source of income. It’s also a good idea to limit your bankroll, as this will help you keep track of your money. This will also make it easier to stop gambling when you’ve run out of money.
You should also be aware of your triggers and try to avoid them. This may mean taking a different route to work if your usual one passes a casino, or switching the channel when you see gambling ads on TV. You should also try to spend more time with friends and family. You may have lost interest in your hobbies during your gambling addiction, so rekindling these interests can be a great way to distract yourself from your cravings.
Another thing to do is challenge negative thinking patterns, such as the illusion of control, irrational beliefs, and the gambler’s fallacy. These thought patterns can increase compulsive gambling. They promise a false sense of control and hope in the short term, but ultimately they lead to more problems. You can learn more about these unhealthy thinking patterns and change them with the help of a therapist or through reading articles online.
If you’re serious about quitting gambling, it’s a good idea to sign up for a self-exclusion program. These programs are available on a state-by-state basis and usually include an electronic device lock that prevents you from visiting regulated gambling websites. You can also use an app like Freedom, which blocks certain websites for a set period of time. You can set recurring block sessions so that the app blocks you during the times when you are most likely to gamble.
While self-exclusion can be a good deterrent, it’s not always enough to completely break the gambling habit. If you’ve already relapsed, don’t worry. The first step is recognizing that you have an issue and seeking help. There are many resources online that can help you overcome your gambling addiction, including support groups and hotlines. Some of these services are free and available to all Australians, while others are targeted at particular demographics. You can visit GamCare’s support and treatment page for a list of useful tools. Lifeline’s Problem Gambling page is also full of helpful information, including fact sheets and symptom guides.
