Despite online slots being available in every casino and betting shop, there are a few simple steps that can help curb gambling addiction. The first is to avoid places, people and activities you associate with gambling. This includes steering clear of gambling sites, not visiting gambling-related social media pages and staying away from friends who gamble. It’s also important to keep a balance between work, family and other interests.
This will help you to focus on your core goals, and make sure that you don’t fall into a habit of gambling as a way to relieve boredom or stress. Whether this involves a new hobby, meeting friends or taking up exercise, it’s essential to find a replacement activity that you actually enjoy. Many people who struggle with gambling addiction find that it’s easier to quit when they find a replacement hobby or interest.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of winning big, but it’s important to remember that winning isn’t always guaranteed. Regardless of how much you win, it’s essential to set and stick to a gambling budget. This will ensure that you aren’t spending more than you can afford, and if you do win, you can stop at that point.
Another helpful strategy is to stop following superstitions or ideologies related to gambling. Whether you think that your next spin is going to be lucky, or you believe that you should play more because it’s been a while since your last win, these beliefs will only get in the way of your success. This is especially true when it comes to online slots, where the result of each spin is determined by the random number generator (RNG) and not by any superstitions or luck.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to use an internet filter to block gambling-related websites and applications from your computer or phone. This will help you to avoid gambling-related advertisements, which research has shown is a significant trigger for many people. This is particularly useful for people who have trouble with impulse control. There are also apps like Freedom, which allows you to set recurring blocking sessions so that you won’t be able to visit dangerous websites at your leisure.
In addition to these strategies, there are plenty of support and treatment options available for problem gambling. Some of these include GamCare’s support and treatment page, which offers a range of resources including free gambling self-assessment tools, financial management help and support chats. Lifeline’s Problem Gambling page is also a great resource, offering Australians free helplines and fact sheets. Finally, the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling is another nonprofit that raises awareness and advocates for quality treatment. All of these organisations can be found on the internet and offer a range of resources for both individuals and families. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, seeking help is essential. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of overcoming a gambling addiction.