If you’re struggling with gambling addiction, there are a number of steps that you can take to improve your situation. These steps will help you to break the cycle of addiction and find a healthier way of living.

1. Get help for your problem

If your gambling is affecting you financially, it may be time to seek help. There are a variety of organisations that can provide advice, support and counselling. They can also advise you on how to avoid making further mistakes and putting yourself in financial difficulties.

2. Tell your creditors about your problem

If you have any debts that you think are linked to your gambling, it’s a good idea to speak to your creditors and explain why you’re having trouble paying them. They might be able to renegotiate your repayments and reduce the amount you have to pay.

3. Self-exclude yourself from online and land-based casinos, betting shops and other businesses

You should consider contacting the business you’re gambling with and asking them to stop you from playing there. Most gambling venues and sites have a self-exclusion option that allows you to ask them not to accept your account details for up to five years.

4. Join a gambling support group

Gambling support groups are a great way to get the help you need. They are run by people who have a similar problem to you and can offer support and advice. Many of them use a 12-step approach, similar to Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

5. Talk to a therapist

It’s important to seek professional help for your gambling addiction as soon as possible. This is because problems can deteriorate quickly, and you can suffer long-term consequences if you don’t address them. There are many therapists who specialise in gambling issues, and they can help you get to the root of your issue and find ways of dealing with it.

6. Rekindle your old hobbies

If you’re recovering from a gambling addiction, it’s a good idea to re-engage in a hobby that you used to enjoy. This can help you to get back into a routine and boost your self-esteem.

7. Become an accountability partner

Another great way to stay on track is by forming an accountability partner with a friend or family member. This can help you to stick to your resolution to stop gambling and ensure that you don’t make any further mistakes.

8. Remind yourself of why you stopped

One of the reasons that people get addicted to gambling is because they lose sight of the reason that they started it in the first place. You need to remind yourself of why you’re trying to quit, and how it will benefit you in the long term.

9. Educate yourself about the risks of gambling

You need to educate yourself about the risks of gambling so that you can make an informed decision about whether it is right for you. This includes learning about the different types of gambling, the laws in your country and what the consequences are if you win or lose.