Getting Back on Track

Getting Back on Track

Well, that sucked!

You experienced a slip, and now you’re faced with the daunting challenge of what to do about it.

Resign yourself to the idea that you’ll never be able to stop gambling because it’s too hard or you’re too weak?  No way!

In this lesson, we’ll explore practical steps you can take to get back on track if you experience a slip.

Practical Steps: Part 1

First and foremost, don’t go bury your head in the sand.  It’s crucial to acknowledge the slip and accept that it happened.  Most of us have been there.   In fact, the majority of people who stop gambling will experience a slip at some point along their journey.

Try to avoid self-blame or feelings of failure.  We know, that’s easier said than done.  But really, say it out loud.

“A slip is a common part of the recovery process.  I am not alone in this.  Most people that now live healthy, happy, bet-free lives experienced slips too.  If they can do it, so can I”

As Babe Ruth Said:

“Every strike brings me closer to the next home run”

Next, ensure you have the support you need in the moment to handle the slip, and prevent from spiraling back into unwanted behavior.  

Reach out to your support system, whether it's friends, family, the Evive Community, or a professional.  Share your experience with them, and don't hesitate to ask for understanding, encouragement, and guidance.

Practical Steps: Part 2

Once you’ve ensured that you’re not going to continue the behavior, you have an opportunity to reflect on the circumstances and triggers that led to the slip.

Try to identify the warning signs and patterns of behavior that may have contributed to the slip.  

Revisit the coping strategies that have been effective for you in the past, including reviewing your Toolkit and the coping mechanisms that can help you manage triggers and urges.

Consider adjusting your plan based on the insights gained from the slip.

If certain strategies or aspects of your plan need improvement, make the necessary adjustments to better support yourself.  Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all path to change your relationship with gambling.  It’s about finding what works for you specifically.

Finally, try and stay busy.  The best way to get past a slip is to engage in other activities that bring you joy.

The first few days are usually the hardest, so try to focus on one step at a time, and remind yourself that life moves on.

Let's Reflect

A very helpful tool in recovering from a slip is to remind yourself of your goals and the reasons why you chose to change your gambling behavior.  It’s helpful to have this answer ready in case you need it:

The reason I have chosen to stop gambling is because…

The reason I know I’m going to be successful in this is because…

Closing Thought

Remember that lasting change is a journey, and slips are normal.  It’s really tempting to punish ourselves after a slip, especially if it’s going to take us some time to recover from the negative consequences of our actions.  

Try to avoid that temptation.  Punishing ourselves is actually counterproductive, and most often leads to increased stress and fatigue that makes us more susceptible for future slips.

The key is to stay resilient and committed to making positive changes.

Each day is an opportunity to continue moving forward on the path to recovery from gambling.