How to Stop Gambling California

Tired of gambling and looking for support? Let’s get you back on your feet! Check out all the options you have in California.

  • Gambling Resources in CA
  • Tips to stop gambling California
  • Things you can do right now!

If you live in any other US state,
select a state to find your state guide.

Let’s Get Started

Gambling can be an engaging activity, but it is crucial to understand why to quit successfully. The first step of the QuitGamble guide is to ask yourself what gambling does for you and why it is so hard to give up. It can help create a moment of peace or provide a distraction from everyday life.

The second step is to limit exposure to gambling triggers. Removing apps, games, and other activities associated with gambling will make it easier to become free from gambling. In the Change Plan video course QuitGamble offers, this concept is called “cleaning up physical space.” Here are four suggested steps that can be taken to decrease exposure to triggers:

  • Switch email address
  • Switch phone number
  • Utilize streaming services to avoid watching TV channels containing gambling commercials.
  • Download and install Gamban or Betblocker if gambling online.

It is also recommended to take the Happiness Test provided by QuitGamble and sign up for a free account on the website to join their community. These measures can help break the cycle of compulsive gambling and aid in creating a healthier lifestyle.

How to stop gambling in California
How to stop gambling in california

How to decrease your exposure to gambling ads?

Gambling Support In California

As a compulsive gambler in California, here are some more resources that can be helpful.

  • QuitGamble.com (We challenge you to challenge yourself)
  • Gambler’s Anonymous California (Classic 12-steps, or read QG vs. GA)
  • California Council on Problem Gambling
  • Suicidal thoughts? Please call National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

California offers numerous organizations that support those struggling with a problem or compulsive gambling. Gamblers Anonymous (GA) has multiple branches throughout the state that offer meetings, counseling sessions, and literature on overcoming an addiction to gambling. GA also provides a 24-hour hotline so individuals can access information about their local GA chapter and speak with someone who understands what they’re going through.

In addition, many cities have programs explicitly dedicated to helping individuals suffering from a problem or compulsive gambling issues. These programs often include education classes, referrals to treatment facilities, and peer groups where recovering gamblers can talk openly about their experiences without feeling judged or ashamed. The staff at these centers are knowledgeable on various forms of therapy that may be beneficial, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices such as yoga and meditation.

Ultimately, it’s crucial for anyone facing a gambling addiction in California to know that there are options for recovery out there – whether it’s joining a group like Gamblers Anonymous or seeking individualized counseling from professionals trained in dealing with this particular issue — all of which will increase the chances of successful recovery over time. Suppose you’re gambling in California and want to quit gambling. It’s important to know that help is also available in neighboring states. Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon all have resources for problem gambling, including hotlines, support groups, and counseling services.

Gambling addiction statistics in California show that the average caller of the gambling hotline has spent $46,000 on gambling in the past year.

QuitGamble.com – Online Gambling Support

QuitGamble.com, an online community with +3,500 members and various resources such as animated video courses, mobile app, forum, support groups, chat, guides, tips, and tricks, provides a platform for individuals struggling with compulsive gambling to seek help anonymously without the need of attending support meetings or visiting shrinks. QuitGamble is an alternative to Gamblers Anonymous 12 steps. QG is free and can be accessed from home.

To emphasize, QuitGamble.com offers the following services:

3 Images from QuitGamble.com Community
Images from QuitGamble.com Community
  • Animated Video Courses
  • Community with +3,500 Members
  • Forum/Support Groups/Chat
  • Guides/Tips/Trix
  • The Mobile App QuitGamble

Henceforth, those who want to break away from their gambling addiction but are uncomfortable sharing this information publicly can benefit immensely from utilizing these resources. With no judgment and anonymity, they can learn how to tackle their problems and avoid dangerous behavior.

Let’s Kick Addiction’s Ass!

California Council On Problem Gambling

The California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) is a nonprofit organization that works to increase awareness and understanding of problem gambling. Established in 1986, it is one of the oldest and largest organizations devoted to this cause in the United States. CCPG provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction:

  1. A helpline 1800-GAMBLER
  2. Online support groups
  3. Educational materials
  4. Training for healthcare professionals and other service providers

Moreover, the organization advocates for public policies and programs that address problem gambling and seeks to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for gambling addiction. To accomplish its mission, CCPG collaborates with the gaming industry and other stakeholders to promote responsible gambling 101 practices and to prevent problem gambling. Finally, the organization is financially sustained by donations from individuals, businesses, government agencies, and grants from foundations and other organizations. By doing so, CCPG makes a meaningful contribution towards addressing the issue of problem gambling in California.

Gamblers Anonymous CA

Becoming aware of support options like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is important. GA is an international support network that helps people stop their unhealthy relationships with gambling by offering meetings and hotlines throughout California.

Gamblers Anonymous California offers regular group meetings where members can share experiences and gain insight into their problem behaviors. They also provide resources such as literature and workshops to understand compulsive behavior patterns. For example, some participants may attend educational seminars focused on developing healthier coping skills or participate in activities that don’t involve money or risk-taking. With its commitment to providing personalized assistance tailored to each person’s needs, GA sets itself apart as one of the most successful methods of helping Californians recover from gambling addiction.

Up North, you’ll find Gamblers Anonymous Bay Area. GA San Fransisco offers weekly meetings. The same is Gamblers Anonymous San Diego doing in southern California. GA has a wide network throughout the state.

Self-Exclude From Casinos In California

Gambling can be a problem for some people, and in California, a program helps individuals limit their opportunities to gamble. The voluntary self-exclusion program bans individuals from entering any licensed gambling facilities in California, except for Horse Racing or Tribal Casinos.

However, if someone wants to take further action to reduce the temptation of gambling, they may also choose to ban themselves from using ATMs at different casinos in California. This tool prevents them from withdrawing money from ATMs located on the premises. Two operators currently offer this service to customers who wish to self-exclude.

To self-exclude from casinos in California, one must fill out an online form. Once completed, this will prevent them from gaining access to any casino in the state. It’s a great way to regain control over your life and avoid activities that could cause harm.

Gambling Online, California?

Is there a way to self-exclusion online casinos in California?

If you gamble online, we recommend installing Gamban on all your devices! Gamban is available on desktops, iPhones, and Android. Download it directly through your app store or visit Gamban.com.

Gambling online is prohibited in California, rendering self-exclusion from online casinos impossible. Nevertheless, a few measures can be taken to block online gambling opportunities. One such action is downloading an app like Gamban, which blocks access to all gambling-related websites and apps. It makes it difficult for individuals to gamble, as they will only see a message saying that the website or app is blocked. Additionally, once installed, the app is hard to uninstall until the subscription period ends – providing further assurance against gambling.

To benefit from this tool, one should install Gamban on their devices, including both desktop and mobile (iPhone and Android). It can be downloaded either through the app store or by visiting QuitGamble.com. Ultimately, Gamban is not a “cure-all” solution; however, it does provide an invaluable aid when resisting the urge to gamble.

California Services To Support Friends And Family

Fortunately, there are services available in California that can help those who want to stop gambling. These services provide support and resources to individuals addicted to gambling and the friends and family of someone with a gambling problem.

If you have a loved one struggling with compulsive gambling, it can be challenging to know what to do. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of codependency in those situations, which can lead to further distress and complications. At QuitGamble.com, members can ask questions of other relatives, co-dependents, and former compulsive gamblers in the chat and forum. Here are four ways that family and friends of problem gamblers can protect themselves:

  • Learn how to speak up and express your feelings about the situation.
  • Be aware of warning signs that may indicate increasing levels of risk.
  • Avoid feeling like you need to take responsibility for someone else’s behavior.
  • Practice nonviolent communication (take the free course).

These steps and an action plan will help you look after yourself while supporting your loved one during this difficult time.

The California Office of Problem Gambling (OPG) is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about dealing with their or a loved one’s addiction. The OPG offers free counseling and referral services, including telephone-based crisis intervention, individual and group therapy sessions, community education programs, and educational material on problem gambling treatment options. They also provide information on local organizations that specialize in helping people with gambling addiction.

In addition, many nonprofit organizations throughout California assist those affected by problem gambling. These organizations usually provide support groups like Gamblers Anonymous meetings in San Diego for gamblers and their families to learn from each other and receive guidance on how best to manage the situation. Additionally, these organizations often host events such as lectures by experts in addiction or workshops designed specifically for individuals struggling with compulsive behavior related to gambling. No matter what your needs may be when it comes to overcoming gambling addiction, there are resources available in California that can help you get back on track.

FAQ

Are There Any Self-Help Resources Available For People With Gambling Problems In California?

The answer is yes, and the good news is that these are easily accessible to anyone who needs them.
One of the most comprehensive sources of assistance can be found at QuitGamble.com. This platform offers a range of free services and information, including advice on how you can start taking control of your problem gambling habits. It also provides interactive tools such as discussion forums, educational materials, and helpful articles to assist those struggling with addiction in finding their way back from the brink.
Other organizations offering support include Gamblers Anonymous Online (GA), which has local chapters all over California, providing peer-to-peer support groups for individuals wanting to break a compulsive habit. Additionally, many casinos across the state offer responsible gaming programs designed to help patrons recognize signs of developing an unhealthy relationship with gambling. These initiatives often involve trained staff members who are always willing to listen and provide guidance when necessary.

Let’s stop gambling California

Suppose you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling. In that case, reaching out for help sooner rather than later is vital before any further damage is done financially or emotionally. You don’t have to go through it alone; there are experts who can guide you to make better decisions regarding your future. Don’t hesitate – take control of your life now!

The best way to prevent problem gambling is to understand why you gamble. You can read more about this in the article about the gambling addiction curve. Educate yourself first and then decide if this type of entertainment is right for you. Remember: knowledge is power when making informed decisions about gambling in California! If you need help beating gambling addiction, you can join our community.

Founder of QuitGamble Anders Bergman
Written by Anders Bergman
Anders Bergman, MSc, MA Anders is the editor-in-chief of all content on QuitGamble.com. He is also the author of…more about Anders Bergman