~snip~
Diverse activities can distract from gambling. I think establishing a balance between leisure and distraction prevents bad behaviors. Moderate, recreational gambling should be considered. Its like eating dessert in moderation - the dose, not the poison. Light, controlled gambling may satisfy the craving without addiction. Turning gambling into a controlled hobby is the goal.
Its about altering our connection with gambling as well as deflecting attention from it. Gambling may be fun when interwoven into ordinary activities. Its about making gambling a treat rather than a habit.
If they can build or do other activities that can divert their attention from gambling, they will not think about gambling as often. They will instead keep themselves busy doing that activity. They know that gambling is just entertainment and does not need to be played too often if they do not want to get into trouble. And when they can't do other activities and instead try gambling, it will make them slowly get deeper into gambling. If they don't realize it soon, they will turn gambling into the only activity that can relieve their loneliness.
This is dangerous because they cannot see other more interesting activities besides gambling. Those who initially use gambling as entertainment, over time, gamble too often, and eventually, they become addicted to gambling.