To Beat Relapse in Problem Gambling Recovery, Know Your Warning Signs

The possibility of relapse is a reality in recovery from gambling addiction. It needs to be expected, but that doesn’t mean it has to happen. Don’t let the disordered brain talk you into a relapse, just because someone tells you it happens. Recovery is a journey in a minefield of many slips and challenges. A good way to look at the road of recovery is that there will be many small skirmishes along the way, until you can get control to win the battle. Some in recovery for gambling addiction say they feel like every day is a choice between living a day of recovery or a day of relapse. It is a conscious choice, so they have to be on their guard at every moment.

Start by acknowledging that you can’t do it on your own. Having information in your pocket about the disorder helps, but so does having a support group that has experienced, or is currently experiencing the same things you are. By contacting the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine, you can get the necessary information and referrals to in-person Gamblers Anonymous (GA) meetings in your area, and also virtual meetings you can access online. An appointment for the FCCG’s Peer Connect Program is another option, where you can speak one-on-one with someone in recovery for problem gambling and get assistance with the FCCG’s A Chance for Change Recovery Workbooks and Budget Toolkit as well.

You need to explore what possible warning signs you may have along the way to a slip or relapse. A “slip” means you gambled but stopped right away and got back on your recovery program. It may be a good time to ask a loved one or friend what they see in your behavior that tells them you are in a “gambling state of mind.” Don’t just plan –  work through it, practice it, and visualize it, so you are prepared when the time arises. For example, pick up the phone and call a loved one, friend, or fellow GA member before you get to a full-on craving and relapse. It is very hard to pick up the phone once you are already in the process of a relapse, so make sure you are prepared to act when you see the warning signs!

Walk Through the Process:

1. Identify the Warning Signs: For example, do you feel the urge to gamble when something or someone makes you angry? Do cravings happen when you are feeling down about yourself? Most times there is more than one warning sign, and they will multiply if you let them get out of control. Take the time to think through all of the possibilities.
2. Identify the Problem: What is going on right now in your life that is causing this warning sign to show up? Are you experiencing financial difficulties? Is it a stressful time at work? Relationship problems? Feeling low and bored? Be specific; is this the real problem or is there more to it? You may be directing your anger at your spouse when you are really mad at yourself for the financial strain you have caused.
3. Identify Tools and Coping Skills: What coping skills do you have in your toolbox to BLOCK the urge to gamble when you notice a warning sign? Make sure you have more than two, in case the first or second one is not working. For example, if you are feeling guilt and shame, you might sit down, breathe deeply, and journal your feelings on how far you have come in your recovery so far. If you are feeling anxiety and stress, you might go for a walk or take a trip to the gym until the urge subsides.
4. Make a Plan: Make both short-term plans you can utilize immediately and long-term plans to guide your recovery. For a short-term plan, think about the small steps you can take when you notice a warning sign. For a long-term plan, think about the steps you can take to totally block the warning signs and triggers. Take a look at your plan to see how effective it is. This is a fluid recovery plan that can change and evolve every day. If the warning signs continue, you will need to fine tune your plan.

Relapse is not a sign of failure! If you slip or experience relapse in problem gambling recovery, it just means you need a different approach or more help from others. Keep the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine in mind – you can connect with a helpful and supportive voice and proven resources 24/7. Contacting the HelpLine can be in your toolbox to beat relapse, too!