How to Stop Lottery Gambling

You may have a gambling problem if family and friends are worried about you.

Lottery and gambling addictions have the potential to not only empty your wallet, but also to destroy your family life. A compulsive gambler is unable to stop gambling even if he is aware of the harm it may cause in his personal life. You may have an addiction to gambling if you feel the need to hide your gambling from others, and also if you gamble even when you are running out of money. However, there are several steps you can take to stop lottery gambling.

Instructions

1. Admit you have a problem. Recovery cannot begin if you remain in denial. Once you realize that you have a problem, you will be able to seek help. Fighting gambling addiction takes great strength. Tackle this issue with the support of your loved ones.

2. Join a support group. Programs such as Gamblers Anonymous help addicts recover from their problems by undergoing the "12 steps" program. Support groups are often led by other recovering addicts who understand what you are going through. These mentors can offer invaluable advice about how they overcame this illness.

3. Seek professional therapy. Psychologists and counselors can help you come up with strategies to fight the temptation to gamble. Counselors can help you adopt a new mentality about gambling, and help you discover why you have these urges.

4. Adopt a safer lifestyle. Until you gain the strength to control yourself, use your family members as a resource for help. Have a friend drop you off and pick you up from work. This will prevent you from buying lottery tickets at convenience stores. Have a family member keep your credit cards so that you cannot recklessly spend. Keep a conservative amount of cash in your pocket that will cover necessities, such as lunch.

5. Discover new hobbies. You might feel a withdrawal from gambling when you initially stop. Fill that void with a positive hobby. Learn how to paint, start exercising or shoot some hoops. Find something that will distract you from your addiction.

References

• Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Resources

• Gamblers Anonymous Official Home Page