I've been in this cycle more times than I can count. After a big loss I’d feel sick, angry at myself, disappointed, full of regret. I'd swear it off thinking that was the last time but then a few days or weeks later, once the sting wore off and a bit of money came in, I’d convince myself that this time would be different.
I'm starting to realise that the real challenge isn’t making the promise to stop, it’s building something stronger than the impulse when it returns.
Stopping gambling on your own is very difficult when you are at the same level as someone with gambling problems, which is why it is very important to recognize early on that you cannot stop on your own and seek medical help. There is no shame in admitting that you cannot stop on your own and there is no shame in seeking medical help.
Doctors have in-depth knowledge and methods to cure people who are suffering from gambling problems, which is why whenever I hear someone say that they are unable to stop gambling, I recommend that they seek medical help urgently if they really want to stop gambling and get cured early.