Four Helpful Ways to Explore and Engage in Gambling Disorder Recovery
Published: September 16, 2024
Recovery for an individual with a mental illness and/or substance use disorder isn’t always a straight line. The ups and downs can feel frustrating and even isolating, which is why seeking regular social support is so critical for those experiencing a gambling disorder.
Studies have shown that social support, such as information, emotional guidance, positive appraisal, and tangible resources, is effective in helping individuals recover from mental health disorders in the long term. Additionally, research has indicated that social support can be linked to positive health outcomes like improved quality of life, well-being, and stress levels.
And since September is National Recovery Month, Pause Before You Play has compiled some helpful gambling disorder recovery resources if you or someone you know needs them.
- Access recovery media: The Pod Resource Guide is a helpful handbook full of podcasts, books, gambling blocking software and apps, online meetings, and 12-step groups for people in recovery from a gambling disorder.
- Exclude yourself from gambling: If you are at risk or simply want to engage in prevention for your future, Ohio offers a voluntary self-ban program called Time Out Ohio. Once enrolled, participants can choose to ban themselves for one year, five years, or a lifetime from sports gaming, casinos, and racinos. In addition to this, Time Out Ohio has partnered with GamBan to offer a no-cost subscription to block online gambling for 6 months to 5 years.
- Find a support group: Going to an online or in-person meeting with people who share similar experiences is a longstanding way to get help for a gambling disorder. Groups can include Gam Anon, Gamblers Anonymous, and Game Quitters. There’s also the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network, which provides all Ohioans with access to no-cost virtual support, and GamFin, which provides gambling-related financial counseling at no cost. If you’re looking for additional resources, PauseBeforeYouPlay.org/get-help offers trainings and toolkits for individuals who may be at risk of developing a gambling disorder.
- Learn about responsible gambling organizations: Ohio is home to many groups that offer resources to those who experience a gambling disorder and work to increase awareness about responsible gambling strategies. Groups include Ohio for Responsible Gambling, Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, and Prevention Action Alliance. On a national level, the National Council on Problem Gambling works to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling disorder.
For more information on your betting or gambling and to access free resources, you can visit PauseBeforeYouPlay.org/the-issue. You can also make the call to the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline. Trained and understanding specialists are standing by 24/7 to provide free and confidential support. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741.
Additionally, if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health concerns, do not hesitate to call, text, or chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Help is always available.