Problem Gambling Recovery: A Time To Be Thankful Posted On
When you’re struggling with – or recovering from – an addiction like disordered gambling, it can be tough to see the silver lining. This is why it’s so important not only during the holidays but every day to think about and express gratitude for the things that are going well, small milestones made and the people and services that are available to help with your recovery.
What can you be thankful for this year? Here are a few of of ours:
Support Options
It can be hard to talk about your addiction with family members and friends. Whether you’ve told your family members and friends yet or not, you can still find support in gambling counselors and other problem gamblers. People are available right now to listen to you and to support you. You might even consider taking the time during the holidays to open up to your loved ones about your gambling disorder and how they can support you through recovery.
If you’re looking for professional guidance, our NYS Support Directory has programs listed by their counties, and the NYS HOPEline number (1-877-8-HOPENY or 1-877-846-7369) can be reached anytime, 24 hours each day.
Resources
Addiction is scary. Once you realize something is wrong, you might have a lot of questions. “Is this common?” “Who else feels this way?” “How can I regain control?” “Where can I find help?” Finding the right resources can put you on the path to recovery. Immerse yourself in ebooks and articles to become educated about problem gambling, and share these resources among friends and family. You can even find helpful infographics that explain the path of problem gambling, or calculate the cost that gambling is having on your financial situation.
We’re thankful to have these resources, along with the many resources provided by gambling support organizations in NYS.
Recovery
One thing to certainly be thankful for is your own journey towards recovery. Every step is an achievement bringing you closer to your goal. Don’t diminish your progress by getting stuck on your set-backs. Celebrate the small, but significant successes. If you choose to attend a gathering at home with family over a night at the casino, that’s progress. If you always get a scratch-off card when you’re at the store and you decide not to this time, you’re a step closer.
You can collect and chronicle these positive steps in a journal, or even participate in a social challenge, like 100HappyDays, to focus on the good things happening in your life. However you choose to recognize your recovery, it’s something to be proud of, and grateful for every day of the year.
If you need support at any point, including over the holidays, help is available. Call the NYS HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY.
