This blog article first appeared on Counsellor Sam and has been republished with full permission.

If you’ve been tempted to gamble again after quitting, you’re not alone. Some people can address their problems by stopping altogether, but for some the urge resurfaces and can be difficult to resist. Callers to our Helpline often feel tested and find excuses to tell themselves: this time, gambling will be okay.

Does this sound familiar? Stand up to the thoughts that tempt you.

If you think:

Instead, tell yourself:

Lesson: Gambling—Why It's Wrong and How to Stop. This lesson addresses two issues—gambling and addiction to gambling. It also relates those issues to your relationships with God and the people you love.

I could just have one shot — $20 would be no big deal.

• Gambling addiction can have many negative effects on your health both mentally, physically and psychologically too. So it is better to avoid it before it actually takes place. So there are so many causes of gambling addiction which include, taking it too personally, seeing it as a source of income and more.
• First, you must come to the point where you fully acknowledge that you have a progressive addiction, and therefore you must stop all gambling and permanently abstain from it. If you go back to it, your compulsive behavior will start back as strong as ever. Then turn your life over to God.
• Each time you resist gambling and the urge subsides it loses its power. The more you resist, the stronger you can become. If you give into the urge and gamble that urge takes control again, but you can take control of it next time.
• Online gambling, things to avoid: Online gaming is enjoyable for the player, but some of the gambling stuff you need to avoid. If you don’t stop these things, you will put yourself in danger. Veterans could know something you can avoid, but you have to know if you are a newbie before you begin playing online.

I can put that $20 away and save for something I really want, like that trip to Thailand with the kids.

I haven’t gambled for 12 months. My life is different now and I’ve changed.

My life is better now and I have the strength to protect it.

I can stay in control around friends while they gamble.

My friends love me and want me to succeed in my decision to stop gambling. We should do something we can all enjoy.

How To Resist Gambling Urge

I deserve to gamble.

I’ve worked hard and deserve to protect myself and the life I’ve built.

I can control my gambling now.

The best way to prove I’m in control is not gambling.

When you want to give in, take a breath and think it through. Remember, you have worked hard to get to this point. You can resist.

Take proactive steps to help yourself avoid temptation:

• Avoid situations that trigger the urge to gamble.
• Avoid having access to money by leaving debit cards at home.
• Talk to a friend who understands how much you are committed to overcoming the desire to gamble.
• Go for a walk, watch a favourite television show or read a book to help you delay gambling. Many people find that if they can delay, the urge passes, and they find strength in their resistance.

Remember: you’re not alone in this journey. See how other people handle their urges on our forum.

How To Resist Gambling Urges

You can also call the free Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858. You’ll speak confidentially with a trained counsellor who can share techniques to help you manage your gambling, quit gambling, or come back from a lapse.