Gambling is a serious addiction that can quickly cause financial harm, emotional distress and social isolation. Left unaddressed, it can lead to a downward spiral that culminates in the loss of friends and desperation to recoup debts. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to stop gambling on online slots.
Changing your mindset is essential to breaking the gambling habit. Often, heavy gamblers blame themselves for their inability to stop gambling, thinking that if only they were more disciplined or could be like their non-gambling friends, things would work out. The truth is that gambling addiction is caused by brain chemistry. Every little win triggers a burst of dopamine, our natural reward chemical. This dopamine spike is very similar to the ones we experience when leveling up in a video game or getting a “like” on Facebook.
The best way to break the addiction is to place more barriers between yourself and the addictive behavior. The easiest way to do this is by using apps such as Freedom, which allows you to block websites for as long as you choose. This eliminates the need to use willpower each time you feel the urge to gamble, which is ineffective and exhausting. Instead, you can schedule your blocks beforehand, making them an integral part of your daily routine.
Another important step is to challenge negative thought patterns that encourage gambling, such as the illusion of control and superstitions. For example, it is common for compulsive gamblers to think that they are “due a win.” However, online slot games are random and the results of any spin are determined by a Random Number Generator (RNG), which creates new, undecipherable combinations of numbers and patterns each second. The RNG is independent of past outcomes and no one can influence it.
After you’ve changed your mental mindset, it is also necessary to find a healthy replacement for risky gambling behaviors. Some suggestions include volunteering, exercising, and practicing mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing. It is also a good idea to set goals and tasks for yourself each day, as these will help you to focus your attention on problem-solving, rather than impulsive gambling urges.
You should also avoid high-risk situations, such as visiting casinos or TABs, and do not carry large amounts of cash with you. Additionally, try to avoid triggering activities, such as watching sports or going out with friends, that will remind you of your gambling habits. Lastly, it’s helpful to rekindle old hobbies, as this will give you something else to look forward to instead of gambling. This will also make it easier to keep up with your self-care plan after you’ve stopped gambling. The more you engage in these positive activities, the more likely you will be to stick with your decision to quit gambling for good. Ultimately, this will help you to overcome your addiction and prevent relapses. The most important thing is to take your time and stay motivated.