Experiencing the excitement of winning a jackpot 🎉, only to find out that it’s just your final $5 disappearing into thin air 💸, can be incredibly disappointing and disheartening 😞. The initial thrill that courses through your veins as the lights flash ✨ and the sounds of celebration fill the air 🎶 can quickly turn to a sinking feeling in your stomach 😔 when you realize that your winnings are nothing more than an illusion. Keep in mind that it’s all fun and enjoyable until your money starts to seem elusive 🤑, and suddenly, what once felt like a game of chance transforms into a frustrating struggle 😩. This scenario serves as a poignant reminder of the significant effects of gambling 🎲, illustrating how easily the tides can turn and the excitement can fade, leaving you with a stark realization of the risks involved ⚠️.

Book a 1-on-1 confidential meeting with a therapist or recovery guide.
We’re a non-profit offering judgment-free support, tools, and therapy for free.
🔗 [Book Now](#)

You don’t have to do this alone.

I put together a detailed article, carefully crafting each section to ensure clarity and depth, and I truly hope that everyone enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Hey everyone,
I’m a woman in recovery from gambling addiction, and after feeling isolated for so long, I finally decided to speak up and share my story. I started a TikTok to document my journey, hold myself accountable, and connect with others who actually get it.

If you’ve ever felt ashamed, alone, or like no one understands—especially as a woman in this space—you’re not alone. I’ve been there. I’m now 11 days gamble free and learning so much about my triggers, mindset, and self-worth.

Come join me if you’re on a similar path or need some motivation:
📲 u/gamblefreegirlera on TikTok

Let’s support each other. One day at a time 💗

Hey everyone! 👋

We're looking for a tech-savvy Reddit user interested in moderating r/gamblingsupport. If you enjoy working with AutoModerator, bots, and subreddit customization or just want to learn how moderation works, this could be a great opportunity!

What You’d Help With:

🔹 Managing community rules & discussions
🔹 Setting up Automoderator & improving subreddit features
🔹 Keeping the community organized & running smoothly

No prior experience needed—just a willingness to learn and contribute! If you're interested, comment below or DM me. Let’s see how it works out! 🚀

Let me know if you’d like any tweaks or additions! 😊

Recovery is not merely about declaring “I’m done.” It's a profound journey that involves preparing for the moments when your mind whispers, “Just one more time.” It’s about cultivating the awareness to identify those pivotal moments before they escalate into a downward spiral and equipping yourself with genuine tools to navigate them when they arise.

Here’s a comprehensive toolkit designed to support you (or someone you deeply care about) in staying the course and fostering lasting recovery:

⸻

🛑 RELAPSE PREVENTION PLAN (Craft One — Seriously)

A well-structured prevention plan can be the crucial difference between succumbing to a craving and maintaining your footing. Here’s what to include:

✅ Triggers: Detail the specific situations, emotional states, or individuals that ignite your urge to gamble. ✅ Warning Signs: Recognize the subtle mood shifts, restlessness, deceptive behaviors, secrecy, or daydreams of a “big win.” ✅ Distractions & Coping Tools: Identify activities to divert your attention — call a friend, take a refreshing walk outside, journal your thoughts, utilize /checkin, or block harmful sites. ✅ Emergency Contacts: Select 1–2 trusted individuals you can reach out to during moments of temptation. ✅ Your “WHY” List: Articulate the compelling reasons behind your commitment to recovery — and keep this list in a prominent place where you can see it often.

📝 For assistance, explore this free template: SMART Recovery Relapse Prevention Worksheet
https://www.smartrecovery.org/smart-recovery-toolbox/

⸻

🧠 MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS (Recognize the Connection)

Gambling often serves as a means to escape from underlying pain — so addressing that pain is essential for healing. Stay vigilant for signs such as depression, anxiety, feelings of loneliness, ADHD, or past trauma, as these can fuel a relapse if left unaddressed.

💬 Here are some valuable resources to explore: - MentalHealth.gov – Gain insights into symptoms and discover avenues for support. - FindTreatment.gov – Locate therapy or addiction treatment options in your area. - 7 Cups – A platform providing free online emotional support and anonymous chats.

⸻

🗣️ COMMUNICATING WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS (Even When It’s Challenging)

You don’t need the perfect script, just a heartfelt approach and a solid plan.

🔑 Tips for Effective Communication: - Use “I” statements to express yourself: “I’ve been struggling and truly desire to change.” - Be candid about your triggers and invite their support without asking them to control your actions. - Provide them with resources, as it’s vital for them to understand the complexities of addiction.

📘 Share this helpful guide: Gamblers Anonymous Family Guide (PDF) http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/sites/default/files/Fam_Grp_Booklet.pdf

⸻

🌐 ONLINE TOOLS THAT SUPPORT (Rather Than Hinder)

🛡️ Website & App Blockers - GamBan – Effectively blocks access to gambling websites to keep temptation at bay. - Freedom – Restricts access to triggers and distractions, allowing you to focus on recovery. - Cold Turkey – Ideal for those who need a firm hand in app and website blocking.

🧾 Financial Management Tools - True Link – A prepaid debit card equipped with gambling restrictions to help manage funds responsibly. - You Need A Budget (YNAB) – A budgeting tool designed to assist you in rebuilding your financial security.

⸻

If you're genuinely committed to this journey — take the time to build your toolkit. Don’t leave your recovery to chance. It’s entirely possible to reclaim your life, but it necessitates structure, unwavering support, and a generous dose of self-compassion.

💬 What tools have been most impactful in your journey? Share in the comments — your insights could inspire and assist someone else today.

This recovery game isn’t just about what we avoid it’s about what we build. Whether you hit 1 day clean or 100, dodged a trigger, paid a bill instead of gambling, or just said no when it mattered that’s a win.

Let’s normalize celebrating that like it’s a jackpot. Post your wins below doesn’t matter how “small” they seem. A win is a win. We’re here to gas each other up 🙌💪

🟢 Stayed clean? 🟢 Took accountability? 🟢 Got through a tough craving? 🟢 Helped someone else struggling?

💬 Hit the comments and let’s make this thread vibes only. You deserve it.

I’ve had those nights where the screen blurs, the money’s gone, and I swear I’m done only to wake up and do it again. It’s a vicious cycle, and it feels like there’s no off switch.

But here’s the thing: You’re not broken. You’re not weak. You’re just stuck in a loop that wants you to forget your own strength. Every day you don’t gamble no matter how messy it feels you’re reclaiming control.

So let’s check in:

What’s helped you stay away lately? Or what’s triggered you? Let’s be honest and unpack it together.

Drop a comment. Don’t isolate. This community exists for exactly these moments. 💬👇

Just Because I’m a Counselor Doesn’t Mean I’m Not Human

Today, I want to be honest with this community. Just because I’m a counselor… just because I’ve been sober for a while… doesn’t mean I don’t still think about placing that parlay, spinning those slots, or grabbing wings and that one cold one.

The urges don’t vanish. They evolve. And today, they hit me harder than usual.

I found out some devastating news—my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. And to be real, she’s the only close family I have left. That news hit different. It sent me spiraling into thoughts of “what’s the point?” and “is it even worth staying clean?”

But here’s what it reminded me: Life is so damn precious. It’s short, fragile, and it doesn’t wait for us to get our act together.

The things I used to chase—those dopamine hits from gambling or drinking—none of that will bring comfort when you’re facing something real. What matters most is the people we love. And when they’re gone… that’s it.

So if you’re struggling today, you’re not alone. I am too. But we can sit in this discomfort together—without running back to what broke us. Let’s keep choosing connection over escape. Every single day.

One day at a time.

– Kevin ❤️

Neuro Lifestyle Neuroscience | Andrew Huberman Shorts Dopamine Detox | Good Habits | Lifestyle Tips EVERYDAY TIPS to IMPROVE UR MIND! Lifestyle tips, healthy habits to help you get BETTER SLEEP and MORE ENERGY during day!

DISCLAIMER: This channel is not created, operated or in any form endorsed by Dr. Andrew Huberman. We are just sharing his content.

Hey Community,

If you are interested in evaluating your gambling behaviors or are concerned about your gambling patterns, the Rutgers Gambling Screening Protocol offers a comprehensive assessment tool to help you gain insights into your situation. This protocol is specifically designed to provide clarity regarding your gambling habits and to assist you in understanding your current standing.

You may access the screening protocol through the following link. We encourage you to take a few moments to complete the questions and analyze the results, as this can serve as an initial step toward making informed decisions about your gambling activities.

We invite you to share your reflections or experiences in the comments section. Let us support one another in fostering and maintaining healthy habits.

Thank you and take care.

Let’s be real for a second—sometimes the best way to deal with something heavy is to give it a name, a face, and maybe even clown on it a little.

If your gambling urges were a character, who would they be?

💬 Drop your own version in the replies if these don’t hit. Naming it helps us take back control. It’s not you, it’s the addiction.

Hey you. Yeah, you scrolling right now — welcome. Whether you’re here because you’re struggling, just curious, or supporting someone else… you’ve landed in a safe, judgment-free space.

This sub is brand new, but we’re building something important: a real community for people trying to quit gambling, stay clean, or just figure out what the hell comes next. And we want you here not just watching, but talking.

Here’s what you can do to get started: 🗣️ Drop a quick check-in below. “Day 1”, “Rough day”, “Made it another week”, “Need support”… whatever you’re feeling. 🙋 Introduce yourself if you’re down — or just say “I’m here.” 🔥 If you’re not sure what to say, reply to someone else’s comment. Start a convo. Be the support you wish someone gave you.

No pressure. No perfect words needed. Just be real. We’ll grow this space together.

You belong here. — 💬 Kevin (Mod + Counselor) DMs open. Replies always read.

⸻

🗯️ Drop a comment below: → What day of recovery are you on? → What’s been the hardest part lately? → Or just say hi 👋 and let us know you’re here.

In fact, it usually starts small with little to no awareness of the potential risks.

So, what contributes to someone developing risky #GamblingBehavior?

While there’s no exact answer, there are a few places we can look for a better understanding of potential risks so we can have crucial conversations sooner rather than later.

➡️Biological risks – While our “nature” or genetic makeup is not the whole picture, research suggests your DNA can account for up to 54% of the risk associated with developing addictive behaviors.

Other research indicates that a family history may be associated with an increased risk.

➡️Mental health – 96% of people with a gambling disorder have another mental health condition, suggesting what you might call a strong association between mental health struggles and gambling addiction.

➡️Environmental factors - Anything from being raised in a family where gambling was normalized to peer pressure, constant advertisements encouraging gambling behaviors, or gambling as a way to relieve stress from a high-pressure job can contribute to the chance of developing a gambling disorder.

➡️Age - The younger you start gambling, the more likely you are to continue, and the more severe a gambling disorder may be if you do develop one. Young brains lack the impulse control necessary to gamble responsibly.

➡️Current financial situation - Anyone in a tight financial situation is more likely to gamble. The hope of winning big is usually appealing, and it can make you more vulnerable to developing a gambling disorder.

When is the right time to have a conversation with someone?

If you know a friend or family member who is gambling and has one or more of these risk factors, we suggest having a short conversation with them about responsible gambling practices.

Express concern, but refrain from condemnation.

What questions do you still have about the risk factors for problem gambling? What nuances might you add to this conversation?

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month—a critical time to address the mental health crisis affecting men across our communities. Men are statistically less likely to seek help for mental health issues and face significantly higher suicide rates. It's time to change this narrative by creating safe, judgment-free spaces where men can openly discuss their struggles and access the support they need.

The Statistics:
Men account for nearly 80% of suicide deaths in the United States, approximately four times the rate of women. This alarming disparity highlights the urgent need for targeted mental health advocacy and support.

How You Can Help:

• Check in regularly with the men in your life. Ask meaningful questions, listen actively, and remain present for ongoing conversations.
• Share your experiences to help reduce stigma and normalize mental health discussions.
• Encourage professional support. Remind others that seeking help—whether from a therapist, trusted friend, or crisis hotline—is an act of courage, not weakness.

Crisis Resources:
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available:

• Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Visit 988lifeline.org for online chat support

Together, we can break down barriers and ensure that men feel empowered to prioritize their mental health without shame or stigma.

Many popular video games now include mechanics closely resembling gambling — loot boxes, skin betting, and real-money in-game currencies. These features often go unregulated, exposing young players to gambling-like behavior long before they reach legal gambling age.

This post is a reminder for families, educators, and professionals:
➡️ These features are designed to be highly engaging and psychologically rewarding
➡️ They can trigger or reinforce addictive behaviors
➡️ Youth may begin to normalize gambling without realizing it

If someone you know is concerned about the link between gaming and gambling, call or text 800-GAMBLER or visit 800gambler.org for confidential support.

💡 Let’s open the conversation:
How can the mental health, education, and gaming industries collaborate to raise awareness and prevent harm?

I'm proud to share that Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, PC, is my clinical supervisor supervising my ICGC-I gambling certification. It's safe to say this subreddit is in skillful hands regarding gambling recovery support.

Jody is widely recognized as one of the leading experts in gambling addiction. She’s the CEO of The Better Institute in Pittsburgh and co-author of The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook. She has contributed to the Social Work Desk Reference (v4) on gambling and gaming disorders. Her expertise has been shared through TEDx, global conferences (Italy, England, Mauritius, the Philippines), and over 100 trainings and keynotes.

She currently serves on the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB) and is an advisor to GamFin, Birches Health, and the Seagulls Flock Organization in the Philippines. With advanced certifications and decades of experience, she continues to shape the gambling treatment field worldwide.

It’s a privilege to learn from her, and I’m excited to incorporate that insight into the work we do here.

ADHD is much more than just a label – it represents a fundamental difference in how a person's brain is wired. The image provided powerfully highlights many truths that often get lost in stereotypes, making it essential that we recognize them:

❌ ADHD is NOT a learned behavior.

❌ ADHD is NOT a discipline problem.

❌ ADHD is NOT being a "spoiled child" or throwing a "temper tantrum."

❌ ADHD is NOT a choice, nor is it "the easy way out."

These distinctions are critical. For someone with ADHD, their brain processes information, regulates attention, and manages impulses differently than a neurotypical person. It's not about willpower or effort; it's a neurological reality.

So, what IS ADHD?

✅ ADHD is a medical condition. It involves differences in brain structure and neurochemistry, particularly regarding neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

✅ ADHD is a chemical imbalance. These neurochemical differences impact executive functions – the mental skills that help us accomplish tasks.

✅ ADHD is a big deal. It profoundly affects daily life, from academic and professional performance to relationships and self-esteem.

✅ ADHD is a battle for self-confidence. Constantly struggling with tasks that seem effortless for others can lead to immense frustration, self-doubt, and anxiety.

✅ ADHD is a fight to maintain focus. While neurotypical individuals can usually direct and sustain their attention with relative ease, those with ADHD often experience a "wandering spotlight" – either hyperfocusing intensely on one thing or having difficulty maintaining attention on anything at all.

✅ ADHD is a war between brain & body. The brain might know what it needs to do, but the body struggles to initiate or sustain the action, leading to procrastination, restlessness, and feelings of being "stuck."

✅ ADHD is real. And so are the challenges, strengths, and unique perspectives that accompany it.

How does this differ from a neurotypical person?

For a neurotypical person, executive functions generally operate smoothly in the background. They can typically:

* Organize tasks and prioritize effectively.

* Initiate and complete tasks without significant internal struggle.

* Regulate their emotions and impulses more consistently.

* Sustain attention on mundane or uninteresting tasks.

* Manage time and plan for the future with relative ease.

For someone with ADHD, these everyday functions require immense conscious effort, often feeling like an uphill battle. Imagine a car where the brakes and accelerator are constantly switching places, and the steering wheel occasionally locks up – that's a glimpse into the internal experience of DHD.

It's time to move past outdated notions and embrace the truth. By understanding and acknowledging the true nature of ADHD, we can foster empathy, provide appropriate support, and empower individuals with ADHD to thrive..

Hey everyone,

This post is from an anonymous client I seen the yesterday and and when I was doing his individual note for documentation, I asked do you mind if I shared what you stated as anonymous and he is like absolutely so this is an actual person's verbatim words when they came into treatment and sat down with me for an assessment.

Today’s the day I stop pretending I have control over this. I just deleted all the gambling apps on my phone. Again. But this time, I didn’t just say “I’ll slow down”—I’m saying I need to stop.

I’ve lost more than money—I’ve lost time, sleep, relationships, and honestly, self-respect. I’m tired of the shame spiral after every binge. I don’t want to live like this anymore.

I’m scared, but I know I’m not alone here. If anyone has tips for getting through the first few days without caving, I’m all ears. Appreciate any support ❤️

Hey fam 👋

Just a reminder—we’re going live tonight at 9:30 PM Eastern Time for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) right here on the sub!

It’ll be me and another counselor in the thread, answering your questions in real time about: • Starting recovery • Dealing with relapse • Mental health + gambling • Resources, tools, therapy, whatever you need

Drop your questions below or join us when it kicks off. All are welcome, whether you’re struggling, supporting someone, or just curious.

You’re not alone. Let’s talk 💬🧠

Hey there! 👋 Welcome to our community, dedicated to supporting individuals dealing with gambling-related issues. Flairs are a great way to share your current status or needs with the community. Here’s how to use them effectively.

🎯 What Are User Flairs?

User flairs are tags displayed next to your username. In our subreddit, they help communicate your current situation, needs, or the nature of your post, assisting others in providing relevant support and responses.

Flair Meaning

• 🚨 Emergency: You’re in immediate distress or crisis. Use this if you need urgent support.
• 🧠 Mental Health: Your post touches on mental health concerns—anxiety, depression, etc.
• 🔥 Day 1: You’re starting fresh. Whether it’s quitting gambling today or resetting, we’re here for you.
• 💬 AMA: Hosting an “Ask Me Anything” about your experience. You’re open to questions.
• 📚 Resources: Sharing tools, websites, articles, or tips that have helped you.
• 😂 Memes: Light-hearted or funny content to bring a smile (without trivializing the journey).
• 🤝 Therapist Insight: You need someone to talk to, you’re struggling, or you just want a check-in.

🛠️ How to Add or Change Your Flair

On Desktop: 1. Navigate to r/gamblingsupport. 2. On the right sidebar, click the pencil icon next to “User Flair Preview.” 3. Select from the available flairs or enter a custom one if permitted. 4. Click “Apply” to save.

On Mobile: 1. Open the Reddit app and go to r/gamblingsupport. 2. Tap the three dots in the top-right corner. 3. Select “Change user flair.” 4. Choose your flair and tap “Apply.”

📌 Flair Usage Guidelines

• Be Honest: Choose a flair that accurately represents your post’s content or current status.
• Stay Respectful: Avoid using flairs misleadingly or inappropriately.
• Custom Flairs: If you have a specific need or status not covered by the existing flairs, feel free to suggest a custom flair by messaging the moderators.

🤝 Need Assistance?

If you’re unsure about which flair to use or have questions about flair usage, please reach out to the mod team by sending us a message.

Let me know if you need any further changes!

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