Getting Control
One way to tackle problem gambling is by looking at the things needed for it to happen. You can then work on removing these things and replacing them with something else.
There are four elements needed for problem gambling to continue.
- Decision: A decision to gamble can be influenced by strong urges and rigid beliefs about gambling. If it was easy to make a decision to quit then there would be no problem. But no matter the motivation, a decision must be made to gamble before it happens.
- Money: By definition it takes money to gamble, and without it gambling cannot happen.
- Time: A person needs time to gamble, and again gambling cannot happen without it .
- A Game: Without a game or activity to bet on there is no opportunity to gamble.
If any one of these is removed, then gambling is not possible until the element is replaced. Below is a list of things to do for each of the above elements.
Decision:
- If you have the urge to gamble, stop and call someone.
- Think about the consequences of your actions.
- Tell yourself to stop thinking about gambling.
- Find something else to do right away.
Money:
- Get rid of your credit cards.
- Let someone else handle your money.
- Arrange for the bank to make automatic payments for you.
- Only have a limited amount of cash on you at any given time.
Time:
- Schedule rewarding recreational time for yourself.
- Schedule time for relaxation.
- Scheduled time with your family.
A Game:
- Have yourself barred from gambling establishments.
You may wish to think about each of the elements above and write you your own plan for tackling them.
Copyright © 2001-2005 Chris Lobsinger
Last updated 27 September 2005