With some form of gambling being legal in 48 U.S. states (plus DC) it’s of little surprise that approximately 60% of Americans participate in the activity. However, with an estimated 2% of the population struggling with gambling disorder, and more than 20% of compulsive gamblers filing for bankruptcy because of gambling losses, you may or may not be shocked to find out that 23 million Americans are in debt due to gambling. This financial hole is very deep at a whopping $55,000 per person.
Are you among this growing segment of the population? If so, you’re wondering how to stop gambling and get out of debt. You’ve come to the right place. As America’s online resource of problem gambling support we have charted out a sustainable path forward. Let’s review.
5 Effective Steps Towards Getting Out of Debt Due to Gambling
1. Get Screened for Gambling Disorder
Are a few large and isolated wagers responsible for your financial situation, or is it the result of an ongoing pattern of behavior that has built debt over a period of time? The latter is indicative of problematic gambling behavior, and it’s extremely important for you to investigate whether or not you have gambling disorder. If you do, professional intervention is required. Confirm that this is the case (or otherwise) by completing this quick 5-minute online assessment:
2. Call or Email for Confirmation of Gambling Disorder
Have the results of the quiz left you unsure? Or do you not feel comfortable completing an online assessment? We understand, which is why we have opened our lines of communication for anyone and everyone who wants to inquire about problem gambling behavior and its consequences, debt included. Simply pick up the phone to call a Kindbridge care coordinator or send us an email right away. This communication will ultimately confirm (or otherwise) whether or not your debt is the result of gambling disorder.
3. Seek Coverage for Therapy
If the steps above have confirmed that you suffer from problematic gambling behavior, you need to begin therapy right away to avoid gambling and getting further in debt. However, the conundrum is that in order to stop gambling and get out of debt, you need to invest in your recovery. What is the cost of getting help for problem gambling? Access to effective treatment in your state is more affordable than you may think. Gambling therapy is covered by a number of insurance providers via its inclusion in mental health therapy services. Learn more about the cost of gambling rehab and get ready to invest in yourself. If unsure about whether or not you’re covered, and/or to inquire about more affordable options that consider your level of debt, contact a Kindbridge care coordinator.
4. Reference America’s Resource for Debt Recovery
There will be a variety of debt consolidation services near you that will require some homework and research on your end. Feel free to explore these options, but we do encourage you to first reference Debt.org which is a debt assistance organization that serves millions of Americans through accurate and accessible online information about personal finances.
5. Avoid Triggers During Recovery
In following everything above you will have taken the most important steps to quitting gambling and getting out of debt. However, every day that passes as you gradually escape the clutches of gambling disorder is wrought with risk of relapse. Do yourself a service by removing all potential gambling triggers from your life.
Casino gamers must logically avoid land-based casinos, delete gaming apps from their digital devices, and install software (such as Gamban) that prevents devices from accessing online gambling platforms. Sports bettors must also do the same for online sportsbooks and fantasy apps. Even go-to news resources such as CBS Sports, Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, and the rest are full of picks and predictions to tempt your senses. And as of August 2023, ESPN should be added to the list of sites for problem gamblers to avoid. Lastly, remove yourself from social situations that encourage gambling. If a traditional day or evening out with the gang entails frequenting sports bars and conversations about points spreads it’s best to skip the invite and focus on healthy alternative activities. This will be challenging in the beginning, but as recovery progresses the grip of gambling disorder (and debt) will begin to release and you’ll finally be free.
STOP GAMBLING AND GET OUT OF DEBT
CALL +1 (877) 426-4258
OR
Email [email protected]
