Navigating the Ups and Downs of 2023: Overcoming Gambling Addiction and Embracing Growth

 As we bid adieu to 2023, it is essential to reflect on the journey of growth. This year marked many ups with twice as many downs. The year started out great. I had everything I ever wanted in life: a loving, supportive, smart, and beautiful significant other. A great, snuggly and loving cat that we both loved and cared for very much. A few months into the year, I had a realization that I might have a problem and took a timeout on all sportsbooks.Once the timeout was up, I went right back to it because I felt like I was missing out on so much. The “I’ve had it moment” happened a few weeks later  when I looked at my credit card statements and noticed I had $0 left, and was down to $90 in my bank account. I felt guilty depositing $10 into the sportsbook just for it to lose the second I placed the bet. Yet I still did it. Even though in the back of my mind i knew exactly what was going to happen. I ended up losing that $10, and a whole lot more than I wanted. The next few months came with some therapy and other changes that needed to be made.

The turning point came with a decision- to not only confront my own addiction but to also channel that experience into something meaningful. It wasn't just about personal redemption; it was about extending a helping hand to others navigating the treacherous waters that is gambling addiction. As I embarked on this journey of recovery and assistance, 2023 became a year marked by invaluable lessons. I learned the power of vulnerability- how opening up about struggles can not only aid personal healing but also foster connections with others facing similar challenges. It was in these moments of shared vulnerability that I discovered immense strength and solidarity within communities dedicated to supporting one another through adversity. 

Education played a pivotal role as well. Understanding the psychological mechanisms behind addiction, learning coping strategies and exploring healthier outlets for excitement and entertainment became integral parts of my recovery process. Moreover, the empathy cultivated from walking this taxing path helped in empathizing with others battling similar demons.

But perhaps the most significant lesson gleaned from this recovery journey is the importance of resilience and perseverance. Overcoming addiction is not a linear journey- It’s filled with setbacks, moments of doubt, and the need for unwavering determination. Yet, each stumble became an opportunity for introspection and growth, reinforcing the resolve to lead a life from the shackles of addiction. 

Looking ahead to 2024, the horizon appears brighter. It’s a commitment to continue supporting others, offering a guiding light for those navigating the complexities of addiction. As we step into the unknown of the upcoming year, there is a sense of anticipation- a gamble, if you will. But this time, it’s a gamble on a future free from the grips of addiction. It’s a wager on personal growth, resilience, and the unwavering determination to lead a fulfilling, wholesome life. 

Thank you all for coming back and reading my blogs for the last four months. If you’re new here, thanks for checking out my end of year blog. I hope my blogs have been helpful in your recovery journeys. If not, please let me know what I can do to help. Let's continue to grow and move towards a gamble- free 2024. Life gets better, one day at a time.

My advice for those who want to change:

• Delete the sportsbook apps.

• Forever, do not re-download

• Self-exclude yourself. 

• Asking a gambling venue to exclude you from the venue or a gambling activity offered by the venue.

• Lifetime ban, if not the maximum years

• If you have a loved one, they will be affected by it in some way, come clean to them about what you are doing. If it gets pushed back and not talked about, It could be worse in the future. 

• Gambling addiction is one of the most secretive addictions out there, stop hiding from your loved one and tell them EVERYTHING

• Attend a GA meeting (online or in person)

• https://gamblersanonymous.org/ga/

• Find a therapist that specializes in addiction. 

• Make better habits

• Hit the gym

• Watch what youre feeding your mind 

• Nutrition

• Social media

• Books 

• YT videos

• Read books

• Learn about the gambling addiction 

• When you learn enough and change your mindset, you will eventually understand why you started in the first place. There are often underlying issues that contribute to gambling addiction.

 

• If sports gambling is the main culprit, STOP WATCHING SPORTS 

• Watching sports for us compulsive sports bettors is the gateway drug.

• Delete all sports apps 

• Unfollow all sports teams and fan pages from social media 

• Give control of your finances to a trusted person 

• For gamblers, seeing money in a bank account could increase the risk of gambling, thinking we could turn that $100 in the account to $1k is not the right mindset to have.

• If you have a line of credit, cut up your credit cards, close the accounts.

15 Life-Changing Activities Beyond Gambling: Transform Your Routine in 30-60 Days

There are plenty of things to do outside of gambling. Gambling was usually something we would do to pass time because we got bored. Thats why its important to change up our habits or what we do on daily basis. It has been said that habit changing can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days. Try incorporating a few of these activities for that duration of time and watch your life change. 

Go for a walk 

Talk the dogs out for a walk

Exercise

Meditate

Write in a journal

Go for a hike 

Read a book

Take a class on Coursera

Take a Masterclass

Spend quality time with SO’s 

Spend quality time with family 

Take the family out for a walk

Play video games 

Watch movies 

Put up a bird feeder and watch birds 

The point of this blog: THERE IS A LIFE OUTSIDE OF WASTING OUR HARD-EARNED MONEY ON SOMETHING POINTLESS THAT WILL ONLY BRING US MORE MISERY. Time to get serious about living our lives the way it should be lived and not behind a phone screen watching odds on a sporting event go up or down or watching some online video gaming machine try to get 5 in a row. Take back your life today, stay abstinent and let's all live better lives. Because life will get better. One day at a time. 

Let us know in the comments how you plan to take hold of your life today and live a life away from the bet. As always, I’m here if anyone needs to talk. DMs open on Reddit, IG (@winningdailygair) and FB (facebook.com/geoffwinningdaily)

Happy Holidays

 Holiday weekend is here and for us compulsive sports gamblers that means a lot of sports will be played this weekend through next week (New Years). Stay strong. Remember why decided to live a life abstaining from gambling. If watching sports is a trigger, DO NOT CONSUME/ WATCH ANY SPORTS. Stay off the phones. With the surgence of online gambling, we unknowingly developed a second addiction: phone addiction. We have set our sights on our mobile devices for too long. We cant live without our phones and have developed a need for it. If online gambling is your issue, stay away from the phone this holiday season. Replace the phone time with spending time with family, friends and other loved ones. Live in the moment and enjoy every last bit of it. Life gets better. One day at a time. DMs open for any and all that need/want to talk. We will fight this together.

Gambling Addiction book review

 Title: "Dopamine Nation: Finding balance in the age of indulgence"

Author: Dr. Anna Lembke

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

In "Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence," Dr. Anna Lembke takes readers on an eye-opening journey through the tantalizing world of modern gratification and its impact on our brains, behaviors, and societal norms.

Lembke, a respected psychiatrist, skillfully delves into the neurological mechanisms that govern our pursuit of pleasure, primarily centered around the neurotransmitter dopamine. Through a compelling blend of scientific research, real-life stories, and her clinical experiences, she adeptly elucidates how the omnipresence of instant gratification—be it through technology, substances, or consumerism—has shaped our lives and rewired our brains.

What sets this book apart is its nuanced exploration of pleasure and its dark underbelly. Lembke doesn't adopt a finger-wagging approach but rather invites introspection. She navigates the complex terrain of addiction, drawing parallels between substance abuse and behavioral addictions, illustrating how our brains respond similarly to various stimuli.

The book doesn't dwell solely on the problem; it offers a beacon of hope. Lembke presents practical strategies, rooted in science and empathy, to regain control in a world where instant gratification beckons at every turn. Her emphasis on finding balance rather than abstinence provides a refreshing perspective, encouraging readers to reassess their relationship with pleasure in a more sustainable manner.

One of the book's strengths lies in its accessibility. Despite the scientific depth, Lembke's writing style is engaging and approachable. She manages to distill complex concepts into easily digestible narratives, making the book relevant and relatable to a wide audience.

However, in some sections, the abundance of case studies and examples may overwhelm readers, potentially diluting the core message. Additionally, while the book offers solutions, a more comprehensive exploration of practical implementation strategies could further empower readers seeking tangible steps towards change.

In essence, "Dopamine Nation" is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of a pervasive societal issue. Dr. Anna Lembke's expertise, combined with her compassionate approach, crafts a compelling narrative that challenges readers to reevaluate their relationship with instant gratification. It's a vital read for anyone navigating the turbulent waters of modern indulgence and seeking a roadmap towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Title: "Recovery: Freedom From our Addictions"

Author: Russell Brand

Rating: 4/5 Stars

In "Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions," Russell Brand, known for his candidness and humor, delivers a raw and deeply personal account of his journey through addiction and the path to reclaiming control over his life.

Brand's approach to addiction is refreshingly unorthodox. He seamlessly blends his personal anecdotes with a mix of spirituality, philosophy, and tried-and-tested recovery methodologies, creating a narrative that feels both relatable and transformative.

One of the book's standout features is Brand's unwavering honesty. He fearlessly confronts the complexities of addiction, dissecting its various layers and the underlying emotional turmoil that often fuels it. By intertwining his own experiences with insightful reflections, he invites readers into his world, fostering a sense of empathy and connection.

What sets this book apart is Brand's unique take on the traditional twelve-step program. He reinterprets the steps in a way that resonates with a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, self-awareness, and personal growth in the recovery process. His approach isn't about blind adherence but about adapting these principles to suit individual journeys towards healing.

However, while Brand's unfiltered narrative is compelling, at times, his writing style may come across as overly verbose or convoluted, potentially overshadowing the book's core message. Additionally, the heavy emphasis on his personal story might detract from providing a more comprehensive understanding of addiction from different perspectives.

Nevertheless, "Recovery" remains a powerful and empowering read. Russell Brand's authenticity and wit shine through, offering a beacon of hope for those grappling with addiction. The book's underlying message—that recovery is not only possible but also a pathway to profound personal transformation—is both inspiring and uplifting. It's a recommended read for anyone seeking insight, guidance, and a renewed perspective on the journey to freedom from addiction.

Title: "Gambling Addiction: A Complete Guide to Survival, Treatment and recovery from gambling addiction"

Author: Kurt Dahl

Rating: 5/5 Stars

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In a society where gambling has seamlessly integrated into our entertainment and lifestyle, the dark side of this seemingly harmless pastime often remains veiled. However, Dahl courageously peels back the layers of this complex issue in "Gambling Addiction: A Complete Guide to Survival, Treatment, and Recovery."

This book stands as a beacon of hope for those ensnared by the deceptive allure of gambling. Dahl showcases a profound understanding of the multifaceted nature of addiction, guiding readers through the intricate web of emotional, psychological, and financial challenges that accompany compulsive gambling.

One of the book's most commendable aspects is its comprehensive approach. It doesn't merely scratch the surface; it delves deep into the roots of addiction. Through personal anecdotes, research-backed insights, and practical strategies, the author offers a roadmap for those seeking a way out of the gripping cycle of addiction.

What sets this guide apart is its emphasis on empathy and understanding. Instead of judgment, it extends a hand of compassion, acknowledging the struggles of those battling gambling addiction. The tone is non-condemning, fostering a sense of encouragement and empowerment for readers to take control of their lives.

The treatment and recovery section of the book is a treasure trove of resources. It presents a range of approaches, from therapy to support groups, enabling individuals to choose a path that resonates with their journey toward healing. Furthermore, the book doesn't shy away from addressing the aftermath—rebuilding relationships and finances—offering invaluable advice on regaining stability in various aspects of life.

While the subject matter is weighty, Dahl employs a writing style that is accessible and engaging. Complex concepts are presented in a clear, digestible manner, ensuring that readers from all backgrounds can benefit from this guide.

In conclusion, "Gambling Addiction: A Complete Guide to Survival, Treatment, and Recovery" is an indispensable resource for anyone affected by gambling addiction, whether directly or indirectly. Dahl masterfully weaves together empathy, expertise, and practical solutions in this comprehensive guide, providing a glimmer of hope and a roadmap to reclaiming one's life from the clutches of addiction.

Breaking Free from Discontentment: Overcoming Gambling Addiction

 “Discontent, blaming, complaining, self-pity cannot serve as a foundation for a good future, no matter how much effort you make.” - Eckhart Tolle

 Discontentment is the condition of being unsatisfied with one’s life or situation. A person who is discontent always wants more. Never satisfied with anything in life. Maybe that's why when we win, we always want more. We wanted to keep seeing the numbers grow thinking we could replicate the “success” or simply, the wins we had but it will never be the same. In fact, the odds are and will always be stacked against our favor. We’ll just keep chasing the losses and digging our hole even deeper. 

Discontentment is a universal human experience. It can stem from various sources—financial struggles, unmet expectations, social pressures, or a general sense of unfulfillment. This emotional state creates vulnerability, making individuals susceptible to the allure of gambling as a potential escape from reality. The promise of a sudden windfall, the adrenaline rush of risk-taking, and the temporary high of a win all serve as tantalizing distractions from life's challenges.

Gambling, in its various forms, presents itself as an enticing avenue for those grappling with discontentment. The thrill of uncertainty and the belief in the possibility of a life-changing jackpot can be especially alluring for individuals seeking an escape from their discontented reality. However, the harsh reality of gambling addiction often lurks behind the initial allure.

Why are we discontent? Well, the only true way to determine that is to seek out professional help such as talking with a therapist who can help uncover that. Talking with a therapist is a great way to just get out of our own heads. We build up these different scenarios in our heads that are ninety nine percent of the time untrue. Having another person to talk with can help uncover why we feel the way we do. They can get us the help we need to overcome this addiction and move forward with a bet-free life. Even if you’re one of those people that say they do not want to talk to a therapist, do it. It will not make you less of a person to talk to someone else about problems going on in your life. If anything they can and will help figure out why you are the way you are. You’ll thank me later. 

How do I stop feeling this way?

The best way to stop this feeling of discontentment is really just feeling the opposite. Meditating, practicing gratitude, and volunteer with local nonprofits are some easy and straight forward ways to overcome this feeling of discontentment.

One healthy habit change is meditation. Meditation is about training in awareness and a healthier sense of perspective. You are not trying to turn off feelings or thoughts, you are learning to observe them without judgement. While meditating, you might be able to learn why you gambled in the first place. Meditation is a great way to reduce stress, increase calmness and promote happiness. Stress for many isolated/escape gamblers was a trigger for their gambling. By practicing meditation, you can channel your inner thoughts and prolong the urges to gamble. According to Sean Oulashin (@SeanOulashin on IG, creator of Antidote: Digital distraction to Peak Productivity in 30 days) the only wrong way to meditate is to not meditate. The duration of meditation does not matter. The only thing that does matter is that you partake in the activity consistently. If you do not know where to start, there are many guided meditation apps and videos on YouTube available to help you start. 

Having a positive outlook and thinking can influence behavior and aid in leading a sustainable recovery from any addiction. Practicing gratitude daily in recovery can help people become more optimistic and have control in their lives. One way we can practice gratitude daily is by keeping a gratitude journal. In your journal, jot down some times throughout the day you felt happy or grateful and include people, places, objects, moments and successes. Focus on what is most important, concentrate on the people around you and your relationships is key to long lasting happiness. Another way is to give back. 

One thing I personally started doing a few months was volunteering at a non-profit called “Feed My Starving Children” . Is a Christian non-profit, dedicated to seeing every child whole in body and spirit. They work with food distributing partners throughout 100 different third world countries. According to a recent data 1 in 9 children die daily from causes related to malnutrition. I started volunteering with this organization because it makes me feel grateful for all that I have: a roof over my head, access to food, clean water, clean clothes, and shoes on my feet daily. At the end they show how many boxes, meals, children fed and the cost to produce all those meals for a year. When they show that, I get that rush of dopamine that I once got from gambling. Only this time, its much more healthier. If this seems to be something you are interested in, find a local soup kitchen or food pantry in your area, and start slow. For this non-profit in particular there is only 8 locations through four states (Arizona- 1, Illinois 3, Minnesota- 3 and Texas -1). 

It's essential to understand that overcoming discontentment and gambling addiction is a journey fraught with challenges. Patience, support from loved ones, professional guidance, and a strong determination to break free from the cycle are fundamental elements of this process.

In conclusion, discontentment can serve as a catalyst for destructive behaviors like gambling addiction. Acknowledging the complexities of discontentment and addressing its underlying causes are critical in preventing the descent into addictive behaviors. With concerted efforts from individuals, communities, and society at large, it's possible to navigate away from the perilous grip of discontentment and reclaim a fulfilling, balanced life free from the shackles of gambling addiction.

Decoding the Neurological Labyrinth of Gambling Addiction: Unveiling the Brain's Struggle and Pathways to Recovery

The human brain is a complex and intricate organ, capable of incredible feats. Yet, it can also fall victim to patterns and behaviors that lead to addiction. One such addiction, often underestimated in its grasp, is gambling. Beyond the glitz and glamor of casinos and the promise of a big win lies a world where the addicted gambler's brain operates on a different wavelength, consumed by a compelling mix of emotions, cognitive processes, and neurochemical reactions.

At the core of this addiction lies a series of interwoven factors that trigger and sustain the behavior. The thrill of risk-taking and anticipation of a potential reward play significant roles in the brain of an addicted gambler. The act of placing a bet triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, creating a rush that reinforces the behavior. This dopamine surge can be highly addictive, leading individuals to crave that sensation repeatedly.

However, it's not merely the allure of winning that propels the addicted gambler forward. Often, it's the escape from reality that gambling provides. Inside their minds, the chaos of everyday life fades away in the flickering lights and sounds of the casino. The high stakes and the potential of a big win serve as distractions, temporarily alleviating stress, anxiety, or depression. The pursuit of this escape becomes a compulsion, a coping mechanism to avoid facing underlying issues.

Moreover, the gambler's brain experiences a cognitive distortion known as the gambler's fallacy. This fallacy leads them to believe that past losses or near-wins increase the likelihood of a future win. It creates a false sense of control, convincing the individual that they can predict or influence the outcome of games of chance.

As the addiction progresses, the brain undergoes changes that make it increasingly difficult for the individual to resist the urge to gamble. The brain's reward system becomes desensitized, requiring higher stakes and more frequent gambling to achieve the same level of pleasure. This leads to a cycle of increased gambling, financial strain, and emotional distress.

Furthermore, the addicted gambler's brain often experiences cognitive dissonance. Despite experiencing losses, they may convince themselves that they are just one big win away from solving all their problems. This internal conflict between reality and the desire for a positive outcome perpetuates the addictive behavior. Breaking free from the grip of gambling addiction involves rewiring the brain's pathways and addressing the underlying psychological factors. Therapy, support groups, and cognitive-behavioral techniques can aid in changing thought patterns and behaviors. Additionally, seeking professional help to address any co-occurring mental health issues is crucial in the recovery process.

Understanding the inner workings of an addicted gambler's brain sheds light on the complexity of addiction and the challenges they face in breaking free. Compassion, support, and access to resources are essential in helping individuals overcome this debilitating addiction and reclaim control of their lives. Addiction, in any form, is a battle fought not only externally but within the intricate neural pathways of the mind, where resilience and hope can eventually triumph over compulsion and despair.

Creating Your Urge Jar: 30 Personal Distractions to Combat Addictions

In my previous blog I talked about an urges jar. The urges jar is basically a jar with different activities/ habits to do when you start feeling an urge to gamble, drink or partake in any of your addictions. 

To make the jar: 

1.    Choose a container

2.     Label the jar: write “urge jar” to remind you of the purpose of the jar

3.     Identify your triggers: Think about situations that trigger the urges

4.     Decide on a strategy: write down 30-50 activities and add them to the jar .

5.     Use the jar: When you have an urge, take one from the jar and distract yourself and delay those urges

Whats in my jar:

• Put out a bird feeder and go bird watching

• Read a book

• Meditate 

• Learn to cook

• Go to the gym 

• Go for walk

• Go for a jog

• Learn a new skill

• Go for a hike 

• Go fishing

• Text support system

• Learn a new language

• Read a book in the park 

• Write a letter to your future self 

• Try out a new coffee shop 

• Start a puzzle 

• Learn how to code on YT

• Go to the driving range 

• Learn how to play guitar

Just to name a few. Theres obviously more that can be added. While we’re all in the same boat as recovering compulsive gamblers, we’re still different in our likes and dislikes. Recovery is not all one size fits all. Just choose 25-30 things you enjoy doing or want to learn or make a hobby and get going. Drop a comment on which ones you like or plan to do, and even comment on your own activities you would like to add to the list and see if others have similar interests as you.