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Small steps to overcome addictions during the holidays

The festive season begins with a focus on family, friends and Christmas food, but it also marks a challenging time for those prone to online, gaming and gambling addictions. The heightened emotions and expectations, the pressure associated with the period, combined with a balance sheet and a desire to achieve quick successes, create an uncertain situation for people with risky addictions.

Financial turmoil is often only the initial challenge. The vicious cycle of various addictions leads to greater losses, encouragement of lying, absenteeism, strained social and intimate relationships, borrowing money. The online space and games are a source of information, a resource for training and professional development, a means of stress relief and management, and should not become a burden and addiction that depends entirely on the will of those who use them. Addressing these problems in their early stages is critical to preventing them from becoming a repetitive pattern of unhealthy behavior sustained over weeks or months, marked by a loss of impulse control in various addictions.

What are possible ways to get addiction problems under control, especially during Christmas and the festive season?

Communication:
Discussing the issues driving people to extremes and different types of addiction with family, friends or psychologists and therapists can provide valuable support. The confidentiality that is provided when consulting with a therapist facilitates the process of dealing with the problem. The goal is to strike a balance, preserving utility and enjoyment, but not going in the direction of heavy deviations.

By careful control over finances:
This safeguard is crucial during the holidays, especially when extra cash flows like Christmas bonuses increase the risk of more reckless behavior.

Software that warns about excessive online presence or excessively long games:
Using the software available to reach unhealthy phases of behavior provides relief and peace of mind, especially when it comes to specific sites where more volatile users reside.

Self control:
Visiting the same sites and social networks wastes valuable time, leads to unrealized opportunities, and trying to recover monetary losses often leads to increasing debt. Interrupting the visit or fixing a reasonable time for residence or play ensures that enjoyment is preserved without harmful consequences.

Avoiding Isolation:
Accepting invitations to celebrations or events with family, friends or colleagues, as well as engaging with positive initiatives and individuals, can help limit the temptation of online, gaming and gambling addiction.

Planning alternative activities:
Replacing online activities with alternative plans on certain days such as family outings, sports, hobbies moves away from unhealthy patterns.

Vacation and vacation planning:
Vacations protect from the days of pre-holiday chaos of the season, provide a variety of entertainment options that ensure the impossibility of isolation stumbling into an online or gambling addiction.

By incorporating these small behavioral strategies, people can get through the holiday season with greater emotional resilience and healthy use of online activities, ensuring more enjoyable holiday behaviors for themselves and their loved ones. While the factors contributing to the increased interest in online content and games around the holidays are obvious, awareness of the potential risks remains crucial throughout the year. Not everyone will be affected in the same way, and some may not experience a change in their habits over this period, but this once again highlights the importance of individualized approaches to addressing addiction challenges.

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Gaming Addiction: Recognizing, Coping, and Treating

Dr. Mariana Todorova

In the age of digital connectivity, the allure of video games has captured the imaginations of people across age groups, and adolescents, in particular, find themselves immersed in this ever-evolving virtual realm. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that gaming addiction is a real and burgeoning concern. As many teenagers grapple with the challenge of limiting the time spent on video games, the line between recreational engagement and addiction becomes increasingly blurred. In some instances, gaming can assume the central role in an individual’s life, leading to adverse consequences that reverberate through physical and mental health and social relationships. For those seeking a way out, it’s paramount to consider game addiction treatment.

Process Addiction: A Comprehensive Understanding

Gaming addiction, classified within the spectrum of process addictions, is a subset of behavioral addiction. Process addictions are characterized by an irresistible impulse to engage in specific behaviors despite the manifest negative repercussions. Other manifestations of process addiction encompass gambling, shopping, and food-related compulsions. The pervasive nature of these addictions underscores the broader concept of process addictions, wherein behavioral patterns are the focal point of concern.

Recognizing the pernicious grip of gaming addiction involves discerning a series of warning signs:

Neglect of Social and Personal Obligations: The addiction takes precedence over friendships, hobbies, and other interests.

Decline in Personal Hygiene: Individuals may disregard personal grooming and basic self-care.

Inability to Adhere to Time Limits: Efforts to curtail gaming time prove futile, with individuals consistently exceeding self-imposed restrictions.

Mood Perturbations: The inability to access games can trigger anxiety, anger, and irritability.

Sleep and Appetite Disruptions: Changes in sleep patterns and eating habits that correlate with gaming habits may become evident.

Emotional Outbursts: Prohibiting or limiting gaming may elicit emotional outbursts.

Academic and Professional Deterioration: A decline in academic or professional performance may manifest as gaming takes precedence over responsibilities.

Withdrawal from gaming addiction mirrors the experiences of individuals grappling with other forms of addiction, often giving rise to symptoms such as anger, depression, and loneliness. It is incumbent to recognize that, in contemplating how to quit a gaming addiction, devising a structured plan is indispensable to navigate the intricate process of addiction recovery.

Navigating the Path to Recovery

For those who have acknowledged their gaming addiction or seek to assist a teen in addressing this issue, there are five pivotal steps to facilitate a successful journey toward rehabilitation:

Establish Stringent Time Limits: Experts in child health emphasize the importance of limiting screen time, recommending that school-aged children spend no more than two hours daily in front of screens. For those aiming to reduce gaming time, initiating a 30-minute daily limit, supported by alarms or reminders from friends, can be a salient starting point.

Reclaim the Bedroom: Removing gaming devices from the bedroom is essential to curtail impulsive gaming. This practice not only minimizes easy access but also combats the adverse effects of late-night gaming on sleep quality.

Leverage Social Networks: Openly discussing concerns about gaming addiction with friends and family is a vital step. Alternatively, initiating conversations about engaging in more social activities can be an indirect yet effective approach to mitigate excessive gaming.

Adopt Alternate Stress-Relief Techniques: Gaming often serves as a stress-reliever for many. Consequently, developing alternative coping mechanisms is pivotal in managing and reducing gaming time. Exploring meditation, yoga, physical exercise, and creative expressions such as painting, writing, or music can provide a means of alleviating stress without resorting to excessive gaming.

Consider Gaming Addiction Treatment: In cases where self-regulation proves challenging, and gaming addiction remains uncontested, seeking professional intervention becomes paramount. Institutions like Foothills at Red Oak Recovery offer tailored treatment services designed to address gaming addiction. Their array of therapies encompasses individual and family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, adventure therapy, equine-assisted therapy, and wilderness therapy.

The prompt pursuit of treatment is integral to averting gaming addiction from assuming a debilitating grip on one’s life. Detecting early signs of gaming addiction in adolescents is a parental responsibility, necessitating immediate action and intervention. By acknowledging the potency of gaming addiction, engaging in open conversations, and availing oneself of professional treatment options, individuals and their families can take affirmative steps towards recovery and restoration of a balanced and fulfilling life.

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“Thinking Outside the Box: Unconventional Solutions for Battling Online and Gaming Addictions”

Associate Professor Mariana Todorova, PhD

In the age we live in with technology dominating our lives as a presence, the fight against online addiction becomes a pressing concern. While traditional approaches certainly have their merits, there is now a wave of innovative and hitherto unknown measures emerging that promise to more effectively address these modern challenges. They are primarily aimed at the so-called “digital natives”, which are the generations around the new millennium (“millennials”, “X”, “Y”, “Z”). These are innovative methods that will not be so mainstream, but will treat or prevent online addiction by using the same digital technologies, but in a positive way.

One of these future services will be virtual reality therapy. Similar to the use of VR to overcome post-traumatic stress and relieve pain in people with severe or terminal illnesses, the technology can offer fascinating therapeutic methods that are much more successful in counteracting digital addiction. People struggling with this modern disease will enter VR environments where they will face and deal with the root causes of their addiction under the expert guidance of professionals.

Places and breaks for “digital detox. These locations will offer a break from the ever-present screens. They will provide a wide range of outdoor activities, relaxation practices and advice to help participants reconnect with technology, but on the spectrum of healthy use as a tool for work or recreation, without severe consequences.

As a new but rather massively threatening phenomenon, digital addiction will bring a new type of social responsibility in the private and possibly the public sector. These will be technological holidays. Progressive organizations will offer paid vacations during which employees will disconnect from all digital devices. Such downtime, showing the forgotten past, can effectively reduce technology burnout and addiction.

Digital Accountability Partners. What could be behind it? We all get a report from our cell phones about our screen time. Such digital addiction accountability partners may be AI-based applications. These digital “friends” will track the person’s screen time and online activity, such as reminders and suggestions to take breaks and switch to alternative and more beneficial activities.

Public spaces without technology. Designating public spaces, such as parks and libraries, as “technology-free zones” is also a fresh approach, which is already being implemented informally. In the future, more and more such methods will encourage people to turn away from the screen and enjoy social communication and interactions without technology. The concept of Tech-Lite Cafes and Restaurants is becoming more and more popular. These are cafes and restaurants that offer discounts to customers who leave their smartphones in designated lockers while dining. Thus, a full social life beyond technology is encouraged.

Digital art therapy. Through digital art, people will be able to express their emotions, experiences and inner struggles related to digital and gaming addiction.

Games and challenges without screen and digital technologies. Organizing mass analogue games where participants will compete to see who can stay offline the longest will also be a form of returning to pre-digital lifestyles.

“Mutual support” groups, but aided by artificial intelligence. Group psychotherapy for any type of addiction has long been known, but the new forms will be with chatbots that facilitate discussions, provide resources and offer emotional support to people struggling with addiction. In a more distant future, real psychologists will be assisted by AI avatars, providing them with therapeutic training or offering counseling and support to individuals through video calls or virtual reality. They will help remove potential barriers to traditional therapy where addicts are afraid to share about it with real therapists.

Parental controls, again assisted by artificial intelligence, can adapt to the behavior of children or young people, learning when and how to apply or not limit screen time and provide educational content during enforced breaks.

Unconventional measures like these could complement traditional approaches to tackle online and gaming addictions, promoting healthier digital habits and improving overall well-being.

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Are there people cured of gambling addiction?

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – what is gambling addiction?

Before we answer more specifically the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction”, let’s clarify what gambling addiction itself is. It is a behavior that is self-destructive for a person and leads to serious problems of a psychological, social and financial nature. Behavior that deviates from the principles of reasonable and responsible gambling and can lead to financial difficulties and even debt accumulation. Therefore, the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” and how exactly is the treatment carried out is important.

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – a question with a clear answer

Actually, if we have to be honest, “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” is a question with a clear answer. Naturally, the answer to the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” is categorically positive. If there was no successful treatment for gambling addiction, the consequences for people struggling with it would be unimaginable. However, the more important thing here is why people who have such problems ask themselves the question “Are there any cured gambling addictions” in the first place. Or to put it another way, what are the thoughts behind the question “Are there people who have been cured of gambling addiction”.

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – what is behind this question?

Behind the question “Are there people who are cured of gambling addiction” there are many different thoughts, feelings and emotions of people suffering from such an addiction. The question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” could speak of pain, despair, shame and unwillingness to share the problem with other people. Whatever the reasons for asking the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction”, the worst thing a person can do is to close in on themselves. He should seek support both from his relatives and from specialists – psychologists, in order to cope with the problem and return to his normal rhythm of life.

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – when do people ask themselves such a question?

People ask themselves the question “Are there people who have been cured of gambling addiction” especially when they feel that gambling is starting to take over their lives and everyday life more and more. When they feel that it is more and more difficult for them to cope with this problem. Here are some of the signs of gambling addiction that make people wonder if there are gambling addiction cures:

  • Are there cures for gambling addiction – when people ask themselves a similar question: desire to play more and more – people usually start asking themselves the question “are there cures for gambling addiction” when their desire to play increases more and more. When after a loss they desperately want to make up for it, and when they win, it seems to them that their winnings will last forever. Here, the question “Are there people who have been cured of gambling addiction” arises at a relatively early stage of gambling addiction, and if a person answers himself correctly are there people who have been cured of gambling addiction and takes the necessary measures, he will save himself a lot of trouble.
  • Are there any recovered from gambling addiction – when people ask themselves this question: experiencing serious difficulties in stopping – finding the right answer to the question “are there any cured from gambling addiction” takes on even greater importance if a person has entered a more severe phase of gambling addiction. If he is having serious difficulty stopping, even if he has promised himself not to gamble and even if he has experienced financial difficulties as a result of gambling. In such a situation, the answer to the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” must be not only correct, but also quick, because urgent measures are required.
  • Are there people who have been cured of gambling addiction – when people ask themselves a similar question: gambling conquers a larger and larger part of everyday life – the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” also arises if gambling conquers an increasingly larger part of a person’s life and everyday life. If he plays even within his working hours and loses interest in any other hobbies and activities that were previously his favorite. Here again, it is important that the answer to the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” is correct and fast, in order to take measures to deal with the addiction and limit its consequences.
Are there cures for gambling addiction – the importance of timely seeking professional help

When the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” arises, it is very important to seek professional help in a timely manner. Help from specialists – psychologists who will clearly answer the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” and help the particular person to join the group of cured people as well. Especially in more advanced phases of gambling addiction, involving financial difficulties and debt accumulation, seeking professional help is a must to overcome the problem.

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – prevention is also important

There wouldn’t even be a need to ask the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” if there was effective prevention. Prevention aimed at encouraging users to play sensibly and responsibly, as well as reliably informing them if there are people who have recovered from gambling addiction. We at the “Responsible Gambling” Foundation have developed a prevention and assistance program, through which we inform users about the principles of responsible gambling, whether there are people cured of gambling addiction and provide them with timely support when needed.

Are there people cured of gambling addiction – Responsible Gambling Foundation will give you the answer

When the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” arises, as well as finding yourself in a situation of deepening gambling addiction, do not hesitate to contact the team of the Responsible Gaming Foundation. We will direct you to the best specialists – psychologists who have extensive experience in dealing with this type of problem. Specialists – psychologists who will give you a clear answer to the question “Are there people cured of gambling addiction” and will help you to join this group as well.

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How I Stopped Gambling

How I Stopped Gambling – When Do You Need Motivational Stories About Gambling?

Before we talk more specifically about the benefits of motivational “How I Stopped Gambling” stories, let’s clarify when such “How I Stopped Gambling” stories are needed. It is important to stop gambling only for users who have developed a certain addiction and are not able to control themselves. Otherwise, people for whom gambling is purely entertainment and do not gamble more than they can afford to lose, have no problem continuing to play. However, people with gambling problems undoubtedly need motivational “How I Stopped Gambling” stories.     

How I Stopped Gambling – What is Gambling Addiction?

To better understand exactly which users need motivational “How I Stopped Gambling” stories, let’s define the term “gambling addiction”. It identifies behavior that is self-destructive to a person and causes serious problems of a psychological, social and financial nature. Behavior that strongly deviates from the principles of reasonable and responsible play and can lead to financial difficulties and even the accumulation of debt. If signs of such behavior are noticed, professional help is needed, including through motivational stories such as “How I Stopped Gambling.”

Why are motivational stories about how I stopped gambling useful?

Motivational stories on the topic of “How I stopped gambling” are very useful for people who are currently struggling with gambling addiction. These stories on the topic of “How I stopped gambling” can serve as an example that shows the person what to do. As an inspiration that motivates him to fight and also deal with his gambling problems himself. For this reason, stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” are used by many specialists – psychologists as part of the therapies and treatment of people with gambling addiction.

In what cases is it good to use motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling”?

Motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” are good to use when signs of gambling addiction are identified and it is judged that the person needs some help and support. Here are the signs of gambling addiction:

  • in which cases it is good to use motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling”: desire to gamble more and more – motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” are necessary when there is a growing desire in a person to gamble more and more and more. When in loss he desperately seeks to make up for it, and in victory it seems to him that his gains will last forever. These are still relatively early signs of gambling addiction, and motivational stories like “How I Stopped Gambling” can be very helpful in dealing with the problem.
  • in which cases it is good to use motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling”: great difficulties with stopping – motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” are even more necessary when gambling addiction has entered a more serious phase and a person is having extreme difficulty stopping games. When, because of gambling, he starts experiencing financial difficulties and even accumulates debts. In such a dire situation, motivational stories such as “How I stopped gambling” are unlikely to be enough on their own, and regular visits to specialized therapy are likely to be necessary.
  • in which cases it is good to use motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling”: almost complete takeover of everyday life by gambling – motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” can also help in cases where a person’s daily life is almost completely taken over by gambling. In cases where he plays online even within his working hours, and all other hobbies and favorite activities lose importance for him. Here again, it is necessary to combine motivational stories of the type “How I stopped gambling” with professional advice and with regular visits to specialized therapy.
Where can I find motivational stories on “How I Stopped Gambling”?

Motivational stories on the subject of “How I Stopped Gambling” can be found in many different sources. Including in specialized literature, and also in the Internet space. Still, when choosing the Internet to search for motivational “How I Quit Gambling” stories, one must be especially careful. It is necessary to turn to specialized and reliable sites, because otherwise the relevant motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” may turn out to be false and even harmful to his treatment. The best option is to visit a psychologist or specialized therapy groups and learn motivational stories like “How I Stopped Gambling” there.

Motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” – also important from the point of view of prevention

Motivational stories like “How I Stopped Gambling” are also important from a prevention perspective. After all, if gambling is just fun for consumers and they don’t bet more than they can afford to lose, they won’t have any problems. It is for observing the principles of reasonable and responsible gambling that motivational stories on the topic “How I stopped gambling” can help them. These motivational “How I Stopped Gambling” stories will show them how difficult it has been for people with a gambling addiction and what it has cost them to overcome it. Thus, thanks to the stories of the type “How I stopped gambling”, users will be fully aware of the risks of gambling and will be even more disciplined about their behavior.

How I Stopped Gambling – Contact the Responsible Gaming Foundation

If you have problems with gambling addiction or want to learn motivational stories like How I Stopped Gambling, don’t hesitate to contact the team at the Responsible Gaming Foundation. We will direct you to the best specialists – psychologists with extensive experience in dealing with similar problems. They will present you with motivational stories on the topic of “How I stopped gambling”, give you useful advice and provide you with the necessary support to overcome your gambling addiction and return to your normal rhythm of life.

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