New River Cove specializes in collegiate/adult programs for both men and women

Principles for Recovery from Compulsive Gambling

1. We agree that we are over-involved in gambling to the extent that the consequences are negative. When we reflect on the role of gambling in our lives, we must admit that it has caused us to violate some of our most important values. Read the complete First Principle >>
2. We will accept the fact that there may be many factors that contribute to our becoming addicted to gambling, but once we accept the fact that we are addicted, we need to move toward overcoming the addiction. Read the complete Second Principle >>)
3. As we move toward a recovery process, we will listen to what experts say about gambling addictions...as well as pay attention to what our friends, family, and relatives tell us about how our gambling has affected them.
4. We will try to identify what makes us feel like gambling and develop strategies to help us overcome these urges.
5. We commit to being honest in all areas of our lives, including telling people important to us if we relapse.
6. At some point, we will make the commitment to stop gambling forever and strive to live responsible and disciplined lives.
7. We will make every effort to learn to live a healthy balanced life without addiction — paying attention to good nutrition, exercise, and doing whatever we can do to improve our relationships.
8. Although we may strive for insight into what made us addicted to gambling, we may need to accept the idea that we may not know until we quit gambling for many years.

The Eight Principles for Gambler's Alternatives booklet contains the complete version of each principle, plus a self-assessment and additional addiction recovery resources. Purchase the Eight Principles booklet for $3.00 >>