This piece is part of a series of stories about today’s sports-betting boom and how to combat a gambling addiction. To read the rest of the stories, click here.
RECOVERY IS A lifelong process, which means there may come a time you feel the urge to bet again. To prevent a relapse, refer to these tips from Michael McKee, Ph.D., a psychologist with the Columbia Gambling Disorder Clinic.
Be Present
For some, believing in a higher power helps them take things one day at a time. But as McKee notes, it can be less about religion and more about mindfulness. This type of practice—like meditating or focusing on your breath for a few minutes each day—can help you stay in the moment and not give in to impulse.
Consider Self-Exclusion
Many states have voluntary self-exclusion programs that allow people to ban themselves from gambling venues, including casinos and racetracks. Find out your state’s process for how to enroll by Googling “self-exclusion” with your state’s name or by checking your state’s division of gaming website.
Accept Support From Loved Ones
When alone, you might make deals with yourself: I’ll just bet a little on that game. “Re-lapse prevention is getting the support of people who are close to you,” explains McKee. That means seeking out nonjudgmental environments, where you’re reinforced for the positive things you’re doing.
Find Meaning in New Activities
The best distractions? The ones that let you connect with others, like volunteering, hanging out with friends, and embracing appointment TV with a significant other. This also helps limit time spent online to avoid any triggers, such as betting ads and point spreads.
Watch Sports With Caution
While some people find it helpful to never watch sports, McKee thinks the activity is too ubiquitous and social to avoid (though he recommends avoiding big games like the Super Bowl). This could mean not watching from beginning to end or checking the score only for your favorite team.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with a gambling addiction, contact 1-800-GAMBLER. Ready to take the next step? Book an appointment with Kindbridge Behavioral Health, and receive a 20 percent discount on your first therapy session using the code “MensHealth20.” Make sure to also include Men’s Health as the referral source on the intake form.
This article originally appears in the September 2023 issue of Men’s Health.
Assistant Editor
Joshua St Clair is an Assistant Editor at Men’s Health Magazine.
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