Using the “HALT” Method for Gambling Urges
When the urge to gamble strikes, it can feel immediate and intense. In those moments, it’s easy to act on impulse — placing a quick bet, opening a familiar app, or chasing a temporary sense of relief. But what if there were a simple way to pause, check in with yourself, and better understand the […]
When Every Win Feels Like a “Fix” — and What to Do Instead
It starts with a rush. That heart-pounding moment when the screen lights up or the last card lands in your favor. For some, that feeling of winning becomes more than just a thrill. It starts to feel like relief. Like escape. Like a “fix.” And when that happens, it’s no longer just a game. It […]
Problem Gambling Among Caregivers: A Coping Mechanism Gone Wrong
Caregivers often carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. Whether they’re looking after an aging parent, a child with special needs, or a loved one with chronic illness, their daily responsibilities can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. While many caregivers demonstrate extraordinary strength and compassion, the constant pressure can push some to seek […]
How Temporal Myopia Impacts Gamblers
Many of us have been there. We adhere to our diet for six days a week. We watch our caloric intake, meal prep at home, and avoid those unhealthy Uber Eats meals. Then, Sunday comes, and we go out for brunch with friends. A few drinks and entrees later (and maybe even a dessert or […]
The Rising Trend of Binge Drinking Among Women and the Problem Gambling Implications
In today’s world, we are all witnessing changes to things we once saw as commonplace. The lines are blurring, and old norms are giving way to new realities. It wasn’t long ago that the idea of women drinking more than men was nearly unheard of. But today, we are seeing a significant shift. With this […]
Handling the High-Stakes Conversations You’ll Face During Problem Gambling Recovery
Part of life is having high-stakes, emotional conversations. Sometimes that means haggling over the percentage of your next raise, pointing to all the hard work you have put in. Other times, these conversations are about problem gambling. You might have them with friends, family members, or even yourself. Despite the emotional toll these talks can […]
A Guide to Turning Your Recovery Story Into Art
Everyone has a story. For some, that story includes a personal journey through gambling problems — a road that can be lonely, complicated, and often misunderstood. But recovery brings an opportunity not just to heal but to create. When you turn your story into art, you gain more than a creative outlet — you gain […]
When to Call 800-GAMBLER — and Why You Don’t Need to Wait
If you’ve ever questioned whether your relationship with gambling might be getting out of hand — or if someone you care about has raised concerns — it’s worth knowing that you’re not alone and that help is available. 800-GAMBLER is here to support individuals and families navigating challenges tied to gambling behaviors, no matter how […]
How to Use a “Temptation Journal” to Stay Self-Aware
Temptations come in all shapes and sizes — and when it comes to gambling, those impulses can be especially tough to manage. Maybe it’s the thrill of the game, the rush of a win, or even just the boredom of downtime that pushes the urge forward. But here’s the good news: there’s a simple, powerful […]
How the Healing Power of Gratitude Can Be Key for Recovering Problem Gamblers
You wake up each morning with a genuine smile spreading across your face. Not because everything in your life is perfect but because you’ve discovered something remarkable — the transformative power of gratitude. This simple practice holds extraordinary potential to reshape how you experience your life.