Gambling: put barriers in place
Blocking software, self-exclusion, bank gambling blocks and money barriers. Practical ways to add friction between the urge and the bet.
Barriers that work
Blocking software, self-exclusion schemes and bank gambling blocks all add friction between the urge and the bet.
Money barriers
Less cash on hand and someone you trust helping with bills can help too.
Chasing losses
Watch out for chasing losses. Trying to win it back is part of the cycle.
In the UK, the National Gambling Helpline is free and open 24/7 on 0808 8020 133.
Put it into practice
THE Habit Breaking App turns this into daily check-ins, urge tools and a plan that fits you. Free to start.
More guides
- The habit cycle: why you keep doing it
- The needs pyramid: what is your habit doing for you?
- Thinking traps that make urges louder
- Guilt vs shame: why it matters for breaking a habit
- After a slip: how to get back up without starting from zero
- Anger: distance first, repair later
- Phone, social media and gaming: add friction
- Alcohol and drugs: stay safe while you change
- Procrastination: the tiny first step
- Rebuilding self-respect, one kept promise at a time
This guide is general information, not medical advice. If you're not safe, call 999 or Samaritans on 116 123.