Gambling Addiction Recovery
The only winning move is not to play. Track your gamble-free journey and rebuild your financial future.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
Gambling Disorder is a behavioral addiction characterized by persistent and problematic gambling behavior leading to significant distress or impairment. It activates the same reward pathways as substance addictions, with the brain releasing dopamine in anticipation of potential wins.
Signs of Gambling Addiction
Problem gambling often escalates gradually. Warning signs include:
Preoccupation
Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next bet
Chasing Losses
Gambling more to try to recover money lost
Increasing Bets
Needing to wager larger amounts for excitement
Failed Quit Attempts
Repeatedly trying and failing to control gambling
Lying About Gambling
Hiding the extent of gambling from family and friends
Gambling When Distressed
Betting to escape problems or relieve negative moods
Jeopardizing Relationships
Risking important relationships or opportunities due to gambling
Financial Desperation
Borrowing money or engaging in illegal activity to gamble
Effects of Problem Gambling
Gambling addiction impacts mental health, relationships, and financial stability.
Short-Term Effects
- Anxiety and stress
- Sleep disturbances
- Relationship conflicts
- Financial strain
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
Long-Term Effects
- Severe depression
- Suicidal thoughts (problem gamblers are 15x more likely)
- Bankruptcy and financial ruin
- Relationship destruction
- Job loss
- Legal problems
- Substance abuse (often co-occurring)
Your Gambling Recovery Journey
Recovery from gambling addiction restores financial stability and peace of mind. Here's how Sobrius helps:
Track Gamble-Free Days
Watch your streak of gamble-free days grow. Every day without gambling is money saved and stress reduced.
Calculate Savings
See how much money you're NOT losing. Sobrius tracks potential gambling money saved.
Identify Triggers
Understand what prompts your urge to gamble—stress, boredom, sporting events, or emotional states.
Access Crisis Support
Use breathing exercises and grounding techniques when the urge to gamble feels overwhelming.
Build Accountability
Connect with others in gambling recovery who understand your struggle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gambling really addictive?
Yes. Gambling disorder is classified as a behavioral addiction in the DSM-5. Brain imaging shows that gambling activates the same reward circuits as drugs, and problem gamblers show similar brain patterns to substance addicts.
Can you recover from gambling addiction?
Absolutely. Many people achieve lasting recovery from gambling addiction through counseling, support groups, self-exclusion programs, and tracking tools like Sobrius. The key is addressing underlying triggers and building healthy alternatives.
What causes gambling addiction?
Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, early gambling exposure, mental health conditions (depression, anxiety), impulsivity, and the dopamine rush of uncertain rewards. Easy access to online gambling has increased risk.
How do I stop the urge to gamble?
Strategies include identifying and avoiding triggers, finding alternative activities, using delay tactics (wait 15 minutes before acting on urges), calling a support person, and using crisis tools like those in Sobrius.
Recovery Resources
Professional support and community resources for your recovery journey.
National Problem Gambling Helpline
24/7 confidential support
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Join thousands of people using Sobrius to track their gambling recovery. Free forever, with optional premium features.