Manage Holiday Stress and Gambling Risks
The holiday season often brings joy, celebration, and a chance to connect. However, for individuals affected by gambling, it can be a time to embrace new, positive coping strategies to manage holiday stress. Frequent gamblers report higher rates of psychological distress compared to non-frequent gamblers (Winters & Derevensky, 2019). By recognizing holiday stress that can lead to risky behaviors, you can take proactive steps to cultivate well-being, manage stress, and strengthen connections with loved ones.
Understanding Problem Gambling
Problem gambling is characterized by an inability to control the behavior, despite adverse consequences. This can lead to significant relationship problems, emotional and mental health struggles, and financial challenges. The holiday season, with its unique stresses, can be a particularly tempting time.
Growth Opportunities To Manage Holiday Stress
Stress may heighten the temptation to use gambling as a coping mechanism, but this season can also be a chance to adopt healthy alternatives like exercise, creative hobbies, and new traditions. Replace the urge to gamble with enriching activities such as volunteering, mindfulness exercises, or connecting with friends.
Consider these tips to help navigate the season while minimizing stress and avoiding gambling:
- Healthy Alternatives: Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as meditation, art, or spending time outdoors.
- New Traditions: Embrace new holiday traditions without gambling, such as family game nights, holiday baking, or exploring local festivities.
- Social Support: Lean on friends, family, or support groups to share concerns and reinforce positive choices.
- Voluntary Self-Exclusion: If necessary, self-exclude from gambling environments to limit access during this period.
By focusing on support and self-care, you can experience a holiday season filled with positivity and resilience. Taking these steps can help manage holiday stress and turn potential challenges into opportunities for growth and create lasting memories.
Seeking Professional Support
If you find yourself struggling with gambling harm, or if you suspect someone you know is facing such challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help. For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on our NYProblemGamblingHELP.org HOME PAGE to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.