In gambling terms, a relapse is the term used to describe a return to gambling, despite having made a decision to stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The majority of problem gamblers who make a commitment to stop gambling will experience one or more relapses \u2013 especially at the start of the journey. Whilst relapses can feel like a considerable setback \u2013 the reality is that each one offers important information and allows us to continue to move forwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although there will most likely be some negative thoughts and feelings after a relapse \u2013 it is important to find perspective and to take the opportunity to learn from it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It will help to run through the days, hours and minutes that led to the relapse and see where there may be gaps appearing in your strategy to quit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are thinking about the relapse \u2013 be honest with yourself about any doors that you have left open for yourself. These open doors might be things such as extra money that you know is unaccounted for, a new friend that you know is a gambler or a website from which you haven\u2019t yet self-excluded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n