If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, it can be difficult to know when to stop. Often, it’s not just about the money – gambling is used as an escape from underlying issues such as anxiety or boredom. It can also be a way to cope with loneliness, especially since many people can access gambling websites and online slots from the comfort of their homes.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to combat this problem and get back on track. The first step is acknowledging that you have a problem, which isn’t easy but it is a vitally important part of the process. Once you have done this, it’s time to start taking action.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how online slots work. Slot machines use random number generators to produce symbols for each spin. As such, it is impossible to predict what will be a winning combination or how big a win will be.

However, you can practice some basic strategies to limit your losses and maximise your chances of a big payout. The most important of these is to set a fixed spending limit and stick to it. This will ensure that you don’t lose more than you can afford to and it will help to prevent impulse spending. Another key tip is to play the lowest denomination possible, as this will maximize your chances of a big win. You should also avoid progressive slots as these tend to distribute their payouts in jackpots rather than regular wins. Finally, choose games that are from reputable providers, as these will have higher RTP rates than others.

Another way to reduce the risk of gambling is to limit your time spent playing. This can be done by setting a timer on your phone or laptop and using it to monitor how long you’re gambling for. This will remind you that there are other things you could be doing with your time. For example, you could try playing a different game or catching up on your favourite TV show.

It’s also helpful to find healthy activities that you can replace online gambling with. This can be something as simple as a hobby or spending time with friends and family. Some people also find it useful to find support groups or read stories of others who have overcome gambling addiction to keep them motivated.

If you are still finding it hard to quit gambling, it might be helpful to talk to a therapist. They can help you develop a strategy to tackle your addiction and make a plan for moving forward. It’s important to remember that changing habits is not an overnight process and it takes a lot of patience.

Finally, it’s important to think about your triggers and what might be causing you to gamble. For instance, do you feel the urge to gamble at specific places or during certain times of day? If so, consider changing your route home or including social supports in the areas of your day where you regularly feel the most compulsion to gamble.