How to Prevent a Gambling Addiction

Whether it’s lottery tickets, scratch-offs, video poker, slot machines, or casino games, gambling can be an exciting way to pass the time. But it can also be a risky, addictive activity that can leave you in debt.

A gambling addiction is a serious problem and can be devastating to your personal and professional life. The good news is that there are treatments available to help you overcome your problem and get back on track.

The best way to prevent a gambling addiction is to never gamble with more money than you can afford to lose. This means planning ahead and deciding how much you can afford to spend on gambling before going into the casino, then sticking to that amount, whether you’re winning or losing.

It’s also important to set aside a fixed amount of time for gambling and not combine it with other activities. This will help you avoid getting distracted and allowing your gambling to interfere with, or take over, other activities that are more enjoyable to you, such as friends, family, or work.

It’s also important to avoid gambling when you are depressed or upset, as these times can make you more vulnerable to making bad decisions. It’s also worth noting that people in poverty are at higher risk of gambling problems because they often turn to gambling for quick, easy cash. If you are in financial difficulty, speak to a StepChange debt adviser for free, confidential advice.