Introduction: Why Knowing Your Triggers is Key
Kia ora, and welcome to the world of online gambling! If you’re new to the scene, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. From the flashing lights and sounds of virtual pokies to the thrill of a winning hand, it’s all designed to be engaging. But it’s also important to play smart, and that means understanding your own behaviour. This article is all about helping you understand “gambling triggers” – those things that can make you want to gamble, even when you know you shouldn’t. Learning to spot these triggers is the first step in managing your gambling and keeping it fun. Whether you’re trying your luck at a place like Hell Spin casino or just exploring different games, this information is for you.
What Exactly Are Gambling Triggers?
Think of triggers as the “why” behind your gambling. They’re the things that spark the urge to play, even if you weren’t planning on it. Triggers can be anything – a feeling, a place, a person, or even a specific time of day. They’re unique to each person, so what sets one person off might not bother another. Recognizing your personal triggers is crucial for staying in control.
Common Types of Triggers
- Emotions: Feeling stressed, bored, lonely, anxious, or even overly happy can all be triggers. Gambling can sometimes feel like a quick fix for these feelings.
- Situations: Being around other people who are gambling, seeing gambling ads, or even just being in a casino (online or real-life) can trigger the urge to play.
- Thoughts: Thinking about past wins, believing you’re “due” for a win, or telling yourself you’ll “just play a little bit” are all thought-based triggers.
- External Factors: Financial worries, relationship problems, or even the time of day (e.g., late at night when you’re feeling vulnerable) can act as triggers.
Identifying Your Personal Triggers: A Self-Discovery Journey
The key to managing triggers is knowing what they are. This takes a bit of self-reflection and honesty. Here’s how to start:
Keep a Gambling Diary
For a week or two, write down every time you gamble, even if it’s just a small amount. Note the date, time, game played, and how you were feeling before you started. Also, write down where you were and who you were with. This diary will help you spot patterns.
Reflect on Past Experiences
Think back to times when you’ve gambled more than you planned or felt out of control. What was happening in your life at that time? What were you feeling? Were there any specific places, people, or situations involved?
Ask Yourself Questions
Consider these questions:
- What situations make me feel like I *need* to gamble?
- What emotions often lead me to gamble?
- Are there certain times of day when I’m more likely to gamble?
- Are there specific people or places that make me want to gamble?
Be Honest with Yourself
This is the most important part. Don’t downplay your gambling or make excuses. The more honest you are with yourself, the better you’ll understand your triggers.
Managing Your Triggers: Strategies for Success
Once you know your triggers, you can start building strategies to manage them. Here are some effective techniques:
Avoidance
The simplest strategy is to avoid your triggers altogether. If certain situations or places are triggers, stay away from them. This might mean avoiding online gambling sites when you’re feeling stressed, or not going to the pub with friends if you know they’ll be playing the pokies.
Cognitive Restructuring
This involves changing the way you think about gambling. Challenge negative thoughts like “I’m going to win big” or “I deserve a win.” Remind yourself that gambling is a game of chance and that you’re more likely to lose than win in the long run.
Develop Coping Mechanisms
Find healthy ways to deal with the emotions that trigger your gambling. This could include exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or talking to a therapist or counsellor.
Set Limits and Stick to Them
Before you start gambling, set clear limits on how much money and time you’re willing to spend. Use tools offered by online casinos to set deposit limits, loss limits, and time limits. Once you reach your limit, stop playing, no matter what.
Seek Support
Talk to someone you trust about your gambling. This could be a friend, family member, or a professional counsellor. There are also support groups like Gamblers Anonymous that can provide valuable support and guidance. In New Zealand, you can find resources and support through the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand.
Delay the Urge
When you feel a trigger, try delaying your gambling. Tell yourself you’ll wait 15 minutes, then an hour, then a day. Often, the urge will pass on its own.
Putting It All Together: A Practical Plan
Here’s a simple plan you can adapt to manage your gambling triggers:
- Identify Your Triggers: Use the diary and reflection techniques mentioned above.
- Create a Trigger List: Write down all your triggers in a list.
- Develop Coping Strategies: For each trigger, brainstorm a coping mechanism. For example, if stress is a trigger, plan to go for a walk or listen to music.
- Set Limits: Decide on your budget and time limits before you gamble.
- Have a Support System: Identify people you can talk to when you’re struggling.
- Review and Adjust: Regularly review your plan and make adjustments as needed. Your triggers and coping mechanisms may change over time.
Conclusion: Staying in Control, One Step at a Time
Understanding and managing your gambling triggers is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. It takes time, effort, and self-awareness. By learning to identify your triggers, developing coping mechanisms, and setting limits, you can take control of your gambling and keep it a fun and enjoyable activity. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. There are plenty of resources available in New Zealand to support you on your journey. Stay safe, have fun, and play responsibly!
