Many problem gamblers find that quitting gambling is only the first step toward recovery. The more difficult challenge is committing to stay away from gambling after treatment. The easy access and widespread availability of lotteries, casinos, internet gambling, bookies, and sports betting make avoiding gambling even harder.
When an individual completes a gambling treatment program, the aftercare phase begins. Maintaining recovery is possible if you surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable. Aftercare programs can help you avoid tempting environments and find healthier replacements for gambling.
Research confirms that gambling-specific aftercare helps prevent relapse.
What To Do After Treatment
Even after treatment, individuals need support and help with navigating their new life without gambling. Post-treatment programs provide addiction education, opportunities to practice new coping skills, and fellowship.
Here are some resources available for gambling post-treatment:
- Gamblers Anonymous
Self-help groups like Gamblers Anonymous provide support for people experiencing gambling problems, as well as their loved ones.
Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step recovery program based on the Alcoholics Anonymous process. The purpose of the 12-step process is to help individuals to accept responsibility for their behavior. Part of this program requires gamblers to admit how gambling has consumed their lives and caused damage.
Gamblers Anonymous also provides information and education. They do not solicit members.
Another important part of the program is having a sponsor, someone who is a former gambler with experience abstaining from addiction. A sponsor can provide you with precious guidance and support. - NCPG
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) promotes the accessibility, availability, and affordability of a continuum of treatment and recovery services for those affected by problem gambling. They provide a nation-wide online directory of certified counselors and inpatient residential treatment facilities that offer specialized help in problem gambling. NCPG also provides state-by-state referral resource listings.
The NCPG Helpline offers a confidential, 24-hour helpline for problem gamblers or their family members at 1-800-522-4700. Visit their National Referral Resource to search the directory of additional resources available. - Alumni Groups
Alumni groups are a part of the aftercare process. Alumni groups provide ongoing positive reinforcement and motivation towards long-term abstinence from gambling. It is a positive support network comprised of new graduates, graduates who have considerable time in recovery, and treatment center staff.
Connecting with other people in recovery or staying in touch with people whom you have developed relationships with during treatment is a motivating benefit of an alumni program.
The agenda of the alumni group depends on the program, but there are common activities offered by alumni programs such as:
- Local weekly meetings
- 24-hour hotlines
- Online social network groups on Facebook and Meetup.com
- Addiction education workshops
- Periodic sober activities, ranging from playing sports to picnicking in a park
- Annual reunions
- National meetings
We are committed to helping our clients overcome gambling addiction, from the first step of entering treatment through the long journey to recovery.
Algamus Aftercare Support Offers:
- A Post-Treatment Connection
As you transition back into your surroundings, we will maintain a connection to you to help you address whatever challenges you may face. Our client care team will schedule calls to you at the end of your: first week, first month, three months, six months, and one year.
- Resources
We provide, as part of your aftercare plan, a list of self-help resources such as Gamblers Anonymous. Algamus has a long-term relationship with Gamblers Anonymous International.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, call us at 888-527-2814 or contact us online 24/7. Our addiction professionals can advise you about all the post-treatment options available. Visit us online for more information about how to avoid gambling after treatment.