Remember that winners know when to stop, if you feel that you have a gambling problem, seek help and gain some knowladge on the dangers of not knowing when to stop.
What Can I Expect From the Helpline?
- Problem gamblers’ confidential and free service
- Detailed analysis of your gambling and related issues
- Information
- Referral for face-to-face mental health counseling
What is it?
Counselling is a safe, confidential, non-threatening, and accepting environment to discuss issues and concerns. Our treatment plan is based on international best practices and customized to your needs. Individual or couple counselling
Taking Charge and Limiting Harm
Change tactics – There are steps you can take if your gambling is causing issues in your life. Change your life by following these steps.
Make plans – Setting short-term and long-term goals can help you stay focused on reducing or quitting gambling.
Avoid risky situations – Using credit cards, loans, carrying large amounts of cash, using gaming venues for socialising, or gambling as a reaction to emotions will weaken your resolve to control or stop gambling.
Discuss it – Talking about gambling issues with a nonjudgmental friend or family member can help. In addition, it can help you cope with stress.
Seek help – You do not have to deal with your gambling issues alone if you are struggling. Many people seek help. We provide free, professional, and confidential assistance.
Confront your emotions – Recognizing that you may be a problem gambler can cause shame and guilt. Self-blame and self-harm can cause stress and increase gambling. Recognizing the issue and seeking help can help you improve your life.
Self-care is key – Stop berating yourself for your gambling problem and focus on your solutions. Recognize your accomplishments and write them down to remind yourself of your strengths.
Find a gambling alternative – Many gamblers don’t know what else to do. Find a new hobby or pastime.
Expect a lapse – A lapse occurs when you decide to stop gambling. If this happens to you, stop gambling. This can help you understand your gambling triggers. When a lapse occurs, evaluate what worked and what didn’t.
Budgeting
- Arrange for a reliable person to assist you with finances.
- Cancel or hand over credit and ATM cards.
- Carry a small amount of cash.
- Arrange with the bank for small daily ATM withdrawals.
- Tell your family and friends not to lend you money.
- Consider requiring two signatures on your accounts.
- Eliminate cash withdrawals from credit cards.
- Do not send cash.
- If dealing with other people’s money is too tempting, avoid cash-handling jobs.
- Keep large sums of cash out of the house.
- Pay as many essential bills as you can.
- Pay some bills in advance.
- Save money for something you really want to have or do.