Addiction Treatment

How to Cope with Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms

Ian Young

18 Jul, 2024

05 min read

Most people associate withdrawal symptoms with substance addiction, but you can also get withdrawal symptoms from addictive behaviors like gambling. These can be crippling, and may cause you to suffer from a gambling relapse.

In this blog, we look at what gambling withdrawal symptoms are, and tell you how you can handle them so you don’t give in and start gambling again. If you are addicted to gambling and need professional help, contact Holina Rehab today on (0) 626 418 369.

Our inpatient rehab on the idyllic island of Koh Phangan, Thailand can support you through this challenging withdrawal period, and can give you all the tools you need to stop gambling in the long-term./p>

What are Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms?

When you stop gambling, your body and mind need time to adjust to the change. Gambling withdrawal symptoms can be both psychological and physical, and they manifest in various ways. Common gambling withdrawal symptoms you may experience include:

Anxiety and Restlessness: Feeling anxious or restless is a typical withdrawal symptom. You may find it difficult to relax or concentrate.

Depression: Many people experience feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or even depression during withdrawal.

Irritability and Anger: You might become easily irritated or angered by small things that didn’t bother you before.

Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or other sleep issues are common during the withdrawal process.

Physical Symptoms: These can include headaches, nausea, and muscle tension.

Cravings: Strong urges to gamble can be overwhelming and hard to resist.

Recognizing these gambling withdrawal symptoms is the first step towards managing them. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare and develop effective coping strategies.

Coping Strategies for Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms

Gambling withdrawal symptoms can be so severe they cause you to gamble again. You can use these coping strategies to help you stay strong during the worst of these withdrawals.

Seek Professional Help

One of the most effective ways to cope with gambling withdrawal symptoms is to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors who specialize in addiction can provide you with the tools and support you need to manage your symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective to address the thought patterns and behaviors associated with gambling addiction.

Join a Support Group

Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can be incredibly beneficial. Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, offer a safe space to share your struggles and successes. Hearing others’ stories and advice can provide you with valuable insights and encouragement.

Develop Healthy Habits

Replacing gambling with healthier activities can help you manage withdrawal symptoms. Engage in physical exercise, which can reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Try activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to calm your mind and body.

Establish a Routine

Creating a structured daily routine can help you regain control over your life. Plan your days to include productive activities, social interactions, and relaxation. Having a routine can reduce feelings of aimlessness and anxiety.

Avoid Triggers

Identify the triggers that make you want to gamble and take steps to avoid them. This might involve avoiding certain places, people, or situations associated with gambling. If online gambling was your issue, consider installing website blockers to limit your access.

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Isolation can exacerbate gambling withdrawal symptoms. Stay connected with friends and family who support your decision to quit gambling. They can provide emotional support and help you stay accountable.

Manage Cravings

Cravings are a natural part of the withdrawal process, but they can be managed. When you feel the urge to gamble, distract yourself with a different activity. This could be anything from going for a walk to calling a friend. Remind yourself of the reasons you decided to quit and the benefits you’re working towards.

Set Realistic Goals

Recovery is a journey that takes time. Set small, realistic goals for yourself and celebrate your progress along the way. This could be something as simple as going a day without gambling or managing a craving successfully. Recognizing and celebrating your achievements can boost your confidence and motivation.

Long-Term Strategies for Managing Gambling Withdrawal Symptoms

While the initial phase of withdrawal can be intense, it’s important to adopt long-term strategies to maintain your recovery. Here are some additional tips to help you stay on track:

Continue Therapy

Ongoing therapy can provide continuous support and help you continue to look at why you started gambling and address any underlying issues that contributed to your gambling addiction. Regular sessions with a therapist can help you develop coping mechanisms and prevent relapse.

Stay Engaged in Support Groups

Maintaining your involvement in support groups can offer ongoing encouragement and accountability. The connections you make in these groups can be a valuable source of strength and support throughout your recovery.

Create a Relapse Prevention Plan

Work with your therapist or support group to develop a relapse prevention plan. Identify potential triggers and high-risk situations, and brainstorm strategies to deal with them. Having a plan in place can help you stay prepared and reduce the risk of relapse.

Focus on Personal Growth

Use your recovery as an opportunity for personal growth. Explore new hobbies, interests, and skills that can enrich your life and provide fulfillment. Finding new passions can help fill the void left by gambling and give you a sense of purpose.

Monitor Your Progress

Keep track of your progress and reflect on how far you’ve come. Journaling can be a helpful tool for this. Writing about your experiences, challenges, and successes can provide insights and motivation to continue your journey.

Consider Rehab

If you keep trying to quit gambling but always fall back into it, no matter what you do, it may be time to consider going to an inpatient treatment centre for gambling addiction. Going to gambling rehab means you will be in a safe space away from anywhere you can gamble, and you can learn all the tools you need to stop gambling in the long-term.

Holina Rehab Gambling Addiction Treatment

Holina Rehab offers a safe and idyllic environment to recover from gambling addiction. Going through gambling withdrawal symptoms can be incredibly challenging, but we believe that the serene and picturesque environment found at Holina in Koh Phangan, Thailand makes these withdrawal symptoms easier to manage.

We operate a holistic program of recovery, which will give you the best opportunity possible to stay away from gambling for good. For more information on how we can help you with your gambling problem, call us today on 66 (0) 626 418 369 or email us at info@holinarehab.com.

About Me

Ian Young

Ian Young is the Global Manager at Holina Care Centres in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Ian oversees the rehabilitation programs that blend the 12 Step model, NLP, and various evidence-based therapies with holistic healing practices. Holina Rehab treats addictions, trauma, anxiety, and depression, offering comprehensive care in a serene resort environment. Ian, a charismatic speaker and author of “It’s Not About Me,” leverages his own recovery journey from addiction to inspire and guide others toward a fulfilling, addiction-free life.

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Residential Daily Timeline

At Holina, we offer a diverse range of treatments and activities designed to help you reconnect with your true self. While each day brings new experiences, we adhere to a regular daily schedule from Monday to Friday to provide structure and support. Below is a general outline of what a typical day might look like during your stay at Holina. Please note that this is a rough guide, as specific activities may vary.

8AM

8:3 AM

9AM

10 AM

1PM

2PM

6PM

8PM

8AM

Morning Meditation

At Holina we do this in 30 minute sessions so our guests can get used to the experience first hand.

Daily Schedule Highlights

Morning Activities

Meditation, Yoga, or Swimming: Begin your day with a refreshing and energizing session designed to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Meditation calms the mind, promoting clarity. Yoga provides a balance of physical exercise and meditation, promoting relaxation and flexibility. Swimming offers a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health and muscle tone, while also providing a soothing environment to clear your mind and reduce stress.

Therapeutic Sessions

Didactic Group: Participate in educational sessions focused on understanding love addiction and developing effective coping strategies. These groups provide essential knowledge about the nature of addiction, relapse prevention techniques, and practical tools for managing stress and triggers.

Psychology and Behavior: Engage in therapy sessions that address underlying psychological issues and promote positive behavioral changes. These sessions may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps to identify and change negative thought patterns, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which focuses on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

Family and Community Support

Family Constellation: Explore the dynamics of your family relationships and how they impact your addiction and recovery journey. This therapy helps to identify and resolve family conflicts, fostering healthier communication and stronger support systems.

Men and Women’s Circles: Join gender-specific groups that provide a safe and supportive space to share experiences and offer mutual support. These circles encourage open dialogue about gender-specific issues, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Creative and Holistic Therapies

Psychodrama: Experience a therapeutic approach that uses guided drama and role-playing to explore emotional experiences. Psychodrama allows you to express and process complex emotions in a safe and structured environment, promoting insight and healing.

Singing Bowls and Drumming Circle: Participate in sound therapy sessions that promote relaxation and emotional release. The vibrations from singing bowls and the rhythmic beats of drumming can help to reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance overall well-being.

Wellness and Recovery Support

Ice Bath and Sauna: Enhance your physical health and promote detoxification with ice bath and sauna sessions. These practices, when incorporated into a holistic program of recovery, can help support your recovery from love addiction.

How Our Drug Addiction Treatment Works

Holina Rehab treats addictions, often accompanied by trauma, anxiety and depression. We don’t have a fixed start date. The program begins as soon as you arrive.

We use the proven western 12 Step model of treatment, mixed with NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), and various other talking therapy strategies, combined with our holistic healing therapies and mixed with mindfulness practices, which originate from Thai Buddhism and other Eastern Spiritual practices.

We have Counsellors, Coaches, Mentors, Therapists, Psychotherapists, Trainers and even a Monk on our diverse and experienced team.

Recent Reviews of Holina Rehab

"I do not Share this message lightly....its given me MY LIFE BACK...WHAT A GIFT TO BE GIVEN ONES LIFE BACK AGAIN..CAUSE OF SOME SUBSTANCE OR OTHER ISSUE...and WITH GOD BEING MY WITNESS..and MOSTLY THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE OF THE STAFF and THE STAFF GIVING THEMSELVES TO OTHERS 24/7 SUPPORT TO ALL OUR NEEDS...THE HOLINA 12 STEP RESORT.IS ONE OF KIND....CARING OUT THE MESSAGE OF BILL AND BOB...and SO MUCH MORE.......ITS NOT JUST A RESORT BUT A BIG FAMILY...WHO ALL HAVE UNDERSTOOD, RELASPED. OR HAVE BEEN THERE BEFORE...IN THESE DARK PLACE AND ISSUES....BUT HAVE FOUND A WAY OUT....THE KEY THE 12 STEPS.....THE STAFF FOR ME ARE ALL SENT BY GOD....which I CALL THEM ANGEL'S...I WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO THANK YOU ALL 4 ALL YOU HAVE DONE.....BUT WHAT I HAVE NOW...CAN ONLY BE GIVEN AWAY......I AM HERE TO SERVE THOSE IN NEED and TO CONTINUE TO DO GODS WORK...as one wants to call HIM....LOVE YOU ALL....MY GOD MAY YOU BLESS IAN FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE WITH YOUR LIFE..OTHERS LIFES...SAVING LIVES..AND TO CONTINUE TO CHANGE AND SAVE PEOPLES LIVES......I WILL BE ..FOR EVERY GRATEFUL JACK.....YOU ARE THE TRUE EXAMPLE OF THE 12 STEPS.....LOVE YOU BROTHER.."

"Holina is Wonderful! As a Rehab Center, the Staff are exceptional, all well trained, kind and give personal attention to all their clients. And Holina's facility is second to None, really the nicest rehab I've ever seen, overlooking the Sea, with two beautiful pools, excellent food and accommodation, one feels the luxury of the Koh Phangan. But most importantly is the exceptional personal treatment the clients receive . One on one counselor sessions, many group sessions throughout the day and personal guidance and help throughout the recovery journey. Holina is the Best Rehab Center in Thailand, in my opinion and Highly recommended!"

"Holina was such an incredible experience for me that opened my eyes to so many holistic wellness practices I still use today. The staff were amazing people and the location of the resort is breathtakingly beautiful. I’ve made friends for life and cleared so much emotional baggage from attending. Thanks Holina 👏"

"A brilliant place to get back in touch with oneself. My experience at Holina was a positive one, I found that the staff adapted to my needs and created a program uniquely suited to my trauma and recovery needs. The staff themselves are committed, educated and experienced. The accommodations are private and comfortable. Cell service and WIFI are top notch. Every personal need was met during my stay. My observation of Holina is that the entire team endeavours to create a warm, welcoming holistic atmosphere with a personalized touch. The general ethos of Holina differs from the normative institutional feel of a traditional western treatment centre and the frequency of one on one therapy sessions is unmatched, so the economic value far surpassed my expectations. It was exactly what I needed. Would recommend to anyone seeking therapeutic care for trauma and or substance use disorder."

"I started my recovery journey at Holina after attending other rehabs in the past and I couldn't have been happier with the level of treatment that I received. The staff are all amazing people who really cared about my needs and wants as a client. The facilities are great as is the food and the programme itself was perfect for me. The other rehabs that I attended didn't even come close to the level of care and treatment that Holina provided. Thank you so much Holina!"

"An amazing and unique treatment and rehab center. The center has a very professional treatment team. Everyone at Holina is matched with a personal program and made to feel that he is the most important to them. The center teaches and provides tools for life such as yoga, meditation and dealing with different situations in life. I recommend going to a center for addiction treatment and treatment to get back to yourself."

"By far the best rehabilitation centre I have been to. The level of care is second to none. I was very nervous attending rehab but all my fears were gone as soon as I met the team of counsellors, support staff and clients. The location is absolutely beautiful and accomodation is extremely comfortable. I had an amazing experience there and learned a lot about myself and the disease of addiction. They gave me life long tools to live a great life free from addiction. I would recommend to anyone to go there. Thank you, Holina from the bottom of my heart."

"Holina has been a life changing experience for me. I've been to 4 rehabs in my life and this has been by far the most profound experience I've had. This type of treatment simply couldn't be found in UK based rehabs. I came in on a huge amount of psychiatric and illicit meds. I was safely weaned off all the drugs I was abusing whilst having the support structure i needed around me at all times. Whilst the location is paradise, the programme itself is very structured and reasonably strict, which is exactly what I needed. Its helped me push my limits from a socially anxious man who isolated, to a (tanned!) man who looks forward to speaking and engaging in communities. I've conquered some real fears in the 11 weeks I stayed in Holina. And I got the opportunity to make some of the best friends of my life, and grow into someone I didn't think possible. Holina gave me the gift of optimism and hope for the future which is something i've never had so I'll always be grateful for that. I know I have a lot of work to do still, but Holina has given me the best possible start on my journey of sobriety."

"Holina has a very unique and professional way of working with residents. There is a multitude of different interventions that are used in working with those people who are residents. They have 2 qualified Psychologists, a number of case managers, nurse, breath work, TRE, meditation, inner walk, Muay Thai, swimming, yoga to name a few. Each person has their own case manager with an individual care plan, that in conjunction works with ensuring the right interventions for the right person."

Holina Youth Village

Holina Village is a safe and contained space designed for young people from the age of 14 to 26, who are choosing to deal with their additions.

Holina Israel

Ancient Spiritual Retreat

Specialising in healing trauma and expanding our spirit through our beautiful retreat in the ancient city of Caesarea Israel.

The Holina Holistic Treatments

Holina’s holistic approach brings to life a broad and healthy view that really meets the 6 primary human needs – certainty, significance, variety, love/connection, growth and contribution.

Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol use disorder is a pattern of alcohol use that involves problems controlling your drinking, being preoccupied with alcohol or continuing to use alcohol even when it causes problems. This disorder also involves having to drink more to get the same effect or having withdrawal symptoms when you rapidly decrease or stop drinking. Alcohol use disorder includes a level of drinking that’s sometimes called alcoholism.

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive, or uncontrollable, drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences and brain changes, which can be prolonged.These changes in the brain can lead to harmful behaviors seen in people who use drugs.

Love Addiction

Love addiction is often mistaken for genuine romantic love, but it involves a deeper, more compulsive attachment. People suffering from love addiction may constantly seek new relationships or engage in multiple relationships simultaneously, driven by a need for emotional or physical connection. They might cling to unavailable partners or even resort to stalking behaviors due to insecurities or desperation.

Depression Treatment

Depression is a serious disorder that can have significant consequences on your quality of life and that of your family around you. Depression will usually get worse over time unless it’s treated. The results of untreated depressive disease in emotional, behavioral, and mental health problems that affect every area of your life. Start your depression treatment journey at Holina, Koh Phangan

Sex Addiction

Sex addiction, also known as compulsive sexual behavior, is a condition characterized by an overwhelming preoccupation with sexual thoughts, urges, or behaviors that are difficult to control. This addiction often leads to engaging in sexual activities despite negative consequences, such as harm to personal relationships, career, or emotional well-being.

Gambling Addiction

Problem gambling takes a severe toll on both mental and physical health. Those struggling with this addiction often face depression, migraines, stress-related disorders, and other anxiety-driven issues. As with other addictions, the consequences of gambling can lead to overwhelming feelings of despair and hopelessness, sometimes driving people to consider suicide.

The Holina Residential Program

At Holina Rehab, our holistic approach addresses the six primary human needs-certainty, significance, variety, love/connection, growth, and contribution-creating a comprehensive and healthy framework for recovery. This approach allows us to effectively tackle the full range of symptoms related to addiction and trauma.