If you still have the urge to gamble after the time elapsed, set a new 15-minute delay. Over time, you will get better at controlling your urge to gamble.

You might designate a few people to hold you accountable. Agree on times when you can contact them for support, so you’re not intruding on any one person’s life too much. If you’d prefer not to involve your loved ones too much and you’d like alternative ideas on how to get support and hold yourself accountable, go to http://www. gamblersanonymous. org/ga/.

This might involve them setting up automatic drafts to pay your bills and blocking any spending to gambling sites or establishments.

To block sites on your computer, you will need to compile a list of URLs. You must also have administrative privileges on the computer in order to add blocked sites to your local C drive block list.

Many gambling establishments have a 1-800 number that you can call to have your name added to a restricted entry list. This will also stop you from receiving email and snail mail advertisements.

During the time you would normally spend gambling, plan a date with your spouse, a movie night with your kids, or a hike with your pals.

The upside to this approach is that you will experience an endorphin rush while also supporting your health and wellness.

Use your hobbies to connect with others by joining local clubs or organizations. Doing this can help you link up with people who aren’t connected to gambling, especially if many of your old friends still gamble. If you don’t want to get back into an old hobby, consider getting into a new one. Try something new that you’ve never tried before, as this may challenge and stimulate you.

Doing these exercises daily can help you keep stress at bay.

For example, you might save or invest for an exciting vacation, your retirement, or your kid’s education.

Locate an addiction counselor in your area by visiting the counselor directory on the National Council on Problem gambling website at: https://www. igccb. org/counselor-directory/. In therapy, you can change thought patterns that drive you to gamble and learn how to cope with urges.

Visit the Gamblers Anonymous website to find groups in your area: http://www. gamblersanonymous. org/ga/.

To learn more, go to http://www. ncpgambling. org/. If you need immediate assistance and are in the United States or Canada, call the NCAP helpline at 1-800-522-4700.