It is very unfortunate when people find themselves trapped in the cycle of out-of-control gambling, with the rise of online gambling platforms, sports betting applications, and the traditional high-street bookmakers. In fact, in recent years, gambling problems have become a growing concern across the UK, affecting many families.
But the good news is that recovery is reachable, with professional interventions or from the support of understanding loved ones, friends, and support network groups. These support groups are willing to help and offer you group sessions for gambling recovery. These organisations promise to guide you in these sessions, hearing stories from people who successfully regained their lives and providing a safe and understanding environment for your healing.
How Can Group Sessions Help?
The key to successfully overcoming gambling disorder are early interventions and comprehensive treatment. Health professionals through one-on-one therapy can provide a custom-made guide in one’s break free from the devastating effects of gambling. However, many people affected by gambling also find comfort and recuperation from group sessions.
Group sessions for gambling recovery are structured meetings where individuals who suffered gambling problems or successfully rose from the ashes of their out-of-control betting habits. These individuals come together to share their stories, give testimonies on how they successfully managed yesterday’s uncontrollable urge to gamble, and support each other to reach a common goal—to recover.
Sessions are usually facilitated by a trained professional or an assigned peer support leader. The group recovery assembly can be done in person or online. Most sessions have open discussions, educational forums, and activities designed to develop coping skills, build self-awareness, and establish motivation to change. The interaction with other victims, participants often feel less isolated and are more empowered to completely move away from the old habits.
What are the Benefits of Group Sessions for Gambling Recovery?
The following are some of the advantages of group sessions for gambling recovery and why many people who are facing gambling problems choose this path to recovery:
Peer support and shared experience
Group sessions provide a sense of solidarity to the gambling victims. The fact that they are not alone in this journey, that other individuals go through the same struggles they are in, is easily comforting. Because of the similarity in situation, participants often develop deep, empathetic bonds, inspiring them to go back to their old selves.
Accountability
Not just forming good bonds from other participants, being part of a recovery group also encourages members to stay committed to their goals. Having friends and good relationships with other victims help individuals in completing regular attendance and stay on track with the activities. Moreover, the support of peers during the sessions can also be a motivation to keep them going even during difficult times.
Reduced stigma
Being a problem gambler can result in a lot of shame and stigma. Not all people can understand the situation of the people who face gambling problems, hence, they often receive hateful comments from others which can lead to low self-esteem. Luckily, group sessions for gambling recovery create a non-judgemental space where they can speak openly without the fear of being shamed or criticised. Acceptance is a vital part of the healing process and through peer sessions, they can find a community where they are loved, accepted, and understood.
Learning from others’ experience
Perhaps, the best part of being in a group session for gambling recovery is hearing stories of hope and inspiration. Although each person’s journey from gambling dependence is different, there are still common experiences which can be used by other gambling victims to recover. Listening to others can give someone valuable insights and coping strategies. Testimonials from others who triumphantly recovered also give hope that a comeback is possible and they are never alone in this circumstance.
Structured environment
Like one-on-one sessions with a professional, group sessions for gambling recovery also offer a structured approach, with clear gaols, therapeutic techniques, and ongoing guidance. While enjoying the benefits of the structure, they also find comfort with other people facing the same situation, eliminating the possibility of being overwhelmed during the whole journey.
Different Types of Group Sessions for Gambling Recovery
After learning the benefits one can get from doing group sessions, it is also important to know about the different types. These sessions cater to specific needs, or could be tried from one type to the other to see where an individual who is facing gambling problems could fit.
- Therapy-based groups – Led by trained therapists, therapy-based groups focus on evidence-based psychological treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address the underlying causes of gambling problems.
- Peer support groups – These sessions include the participation of people who successfully recovered from problem gambling. Usually done on-site or online, peer support groups give a more informal setting where anyone can give testimonies, share tips on how to conquer the urge to bet, and offer mutual support to other sufferers for them to hold on until the final day of the program.
- Online recovery communities – The rise of digital platforms also paved the way to the creation of different support groups online, particularly in social media. Different pages and groups, usually led by professionals or individuals who fully recovered, allow members to share their experiences or even ask questions. Other members can also freely share their thoughts or comment on things they are knowledgeable about.
Suggested read: Legal Help for Gambling Crime: Your Rights Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from group sessions?
Group sessions for gambling recovery are suitable for anyone who is affected by gambling habits. This type of intervention is fit for those who are seeking the first step of their recovery or those who need additional activities to achieve healing.
Do I have to speak during the session?
Speaking during group sessions is not required specifically if you are uncomfortable doing so. Usually, first-time attendees choose to listen during their first few sessions and as trust builds, they find the courage to open up and share their experiences.
Are group sessions confidential?
Definitely! Group sessions for gambling recovery are confidential. Participants are expected to respect each other’s privacy and maintain discretion about what is shared during the meetups.
Final Thoughts
Overcoming problem gambling habits can be overwhelming but with the help of others—family members, support network, and peers who have experienced the same struggles—recovery is always possible.
We at GamLEARN, acknowledge the important role of group sessions for gambling recovery. Should you need someone to talk to or a helping hand in difficult phases of gambling recovery, we are here to help. Please send us a message at info@dev-gamlearn.brightonwebdesign-hosting.com. Let us help them take the path towards a brighter, healthier future!
