Changing thoughts and beliefs

Changing your thoughts and beliefs can be a very effective self-help strategy.

These may include:

  • Accepting that gambling needs to change

  • Thinking about how money could be better spent

  • Reminding yourself of the negative effects of gambling

  • Reminding yourself of the positive effects of not gambling

  • Making a resolution to change your gambling

  • Comparing costs and benefits of continuing to gamble

  • Reminding yourself that sometimes people win… but the system is designed for you to lose money

  • Focussing on not gambling, one day at a time

  • Concentrating on being strong or using will power

  • Making a daily affirmation such as 'staying positive' or 'letting go'.

Source:

Lubman, Rodda, Hing, Cheetham, Cartmill, Nuske, Hodgins & Cunningham (2015). Gambler Self-Help Strategies: A Comprehensive Assessment of Self-Help Strategies and Actions. Gambling Research Australia. Melbourne.


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