It is a long established fact that 'letting it out' is beneficial.
Being overwhelmed and not able to share how you are feeling can be debilitating however finding a way to let out your feelings and thoughts is not as hard as you might think.
The first thing to decide is what do I want to share and who can I do that with.
Gamblers find this most difficult because of the stigma, real or perceived, that friends, family and the wider community may have about gambling.
If possible find someone who is accepting of you for being you, next would be a medical practitioner, by just letting even a little bit out, like a kettle whistling, the pressure is released and enables you to let a bit more out.
Eventually you become relaxed enough to openly share your feelings, experiences, highs and lows so that you can start observing your actions, particularly the ones you are not happy with, and find ways to change them.
This is how Alcohol and Gamblers Anonymous works. They also include a support network which enables you to feel safe and secure on your journey to a better you.
If you don't have anyone you can talk to you in your immediate circle there are dozens of organisations that provide this opportunity. HelpStop has SIX methods to choses from; Caring Staff, Pathways via Medical Practitioners, Counselors, Social activities where you can meet new people whom you can let out what you want to let out, befrienders that understand your situation and are happy to converse with you on any subject and lastly socialising apps.
All you have to do is choose which pathway you feel most comfortable taking.
You may change your mind because that method no longer suits you, but at least you have started and the next method you choose could be the one that works.
Understanding Gambling Disorder
Frequently asked question
If you don't feel you have a friend or family member that will be receptive at this time then there are many other ways to start this very important step.
Organisations like Gambling Help Online, Gamblers Anonymous, your local medical practitioner or a counselor (HelpStop provides these), all have an easy ear and are trained to assist you. Alternatively you could write a letter to yourself; Dear Friend, I have noticed the following about myself and would like to share it with you OR start a journal where you make notes about your feelings, perceptions, fears and how you are or are not dealing with them.
Being apprehensive about telling others that you have a problem with gambling is a natural response and all gamblers experience it.
In a recent survey problem gamblers believed their condition to be more publicly stigmatised than alcoholism, obesity, schizophrenia, depression, cancer, bankruptcy and recreational gambling, but not more so than drug addiction.
They also perceived greater stigma from others than was actually the case and you are no different. The most common self-stigmatising beliefs held by people with gambling problems include feeling disappointed in themselves, ashamed, embarrassed, guilty, stupid, weak and a failure.
Remember ‘letting it out’ is the second step to understanding why you are doing what you are doing, the first step being the self realisation that you have an issue with your gambling.
Psychiatrists are the only professionals which can diagnose Gambling Disorder DSM 5 and where necessary, prescribe and monitor medication to alleviate symptoms, stabilise moods, or manage mental health conditions effectively.
They ensure that medications are appropriately prescribed, dosages are adjusted as needed, and any potential side effects are monitored.
Being diagnosed with a gambling disorder opens up doors to many benefits provided by government services.
Speaking with a psychologist or counselor can improve your ability to control and comprehend your emotions, especially if you are struggling to handle them yourself.
They can assist you in locating the main source of your emotional pain and give you the means of resolving it.