Addiction Recovery: New Year’s Resolutions for Problem Gamblers Posted On
The year is just about to come to an end, and many people are making new year’s resolutions. For some problem gamblers, this year was a year filled with positive recovery steps, whether they were part of the very beginning of a recovery or another successful year of recovery.
For others, 2013 was the year problem gambling began to have serious consequences.
Are you currently being affected by your own gambling disorder or by one of another person? What can be done to make 2014 a better year?
New Year’s Resolutions
Educate yourself about gambling disorder. Are you considered problem gambling is hurting you or someone you know? Whether you’re dealing with your own addiction or are watching it affect a loved one, it is important that you understand what gambling disorder is and know its warning signs and the potential consequences. Understand how it affects a variety of people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. Learn what you can do to help raise awareness about gambling disorder and how you can help others find support.
Understand the different types of support available. We’re not going to tell you to make a New Year’s resolution that says, “Quit gambling.” If you’re not immediately successful in the first week of January, we want you to keep trying to begin your recovery throughout the year, for as long as it takes. We don’t want you to just “quit gambling” – we want you to treat the underlying issues that have caused your addiction.
If you’re a problem gambler, you likely find it very hard to stop gambling. In 2014, we hope that you begin seeking treatment options that will help you successfully begin your recovery. You might try attending group support sessions such as Gamblers Anonymous, or you can seek out personalized counseling sessions. You may even choose to do both.
Talk to the others around you about gambling disorder. If you’re affected by your own addiction, find people who you are comfortable speaking with, whether it’s family members, friends, or counselors. Educate them about gambling disorder and how it is affecting you personally.
If you want to prevent the gambling disorders of other people, talk to people in your community about the risks of problem gambling and the risks of introducing young children to gambling.
Reach out for help. If you have resolved to stop your problem gambling, you shouldn’t have to do it alone. Support is available to help you quit and stay in recovery. Whether you call on January 1, mid-February or any other day next year, the people at the NYS HOPEline are prepared to take your call and provide the guidance you need. Call 1-877-8-HOPENY.
