Like Alcoholics Anonymous, this fellowship allows men and women to fight their addiction. They come together to overcome compulsive gambling and help each other make 12 steps to recovery. At regular meetings, members share their stories and exchange advice. Here is how this works in 2021.
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1. No Discrimination
The fellowship is independent of religious or political affiliations, although the 12-step process mentions a higher power. Gamblers of all ages, ethnicity, and religions are welcome. They are united by a shared goal — full recovery.
Many gamblers with compulsive tendencies feel misunderstood by their family or friends. They often struggle with mental health issues, too. At GA, they can exchange stories and habits of overcoming the addiction.
2. Regular Meetings
So, what does a GA session look like? Every meeting (they are held several times per week) starts with a brief prayer to a higher power. Every newbie gets a sponsor — a person they can call and confide in during a trigger moment. Often, they become best friends for life.
During a meeting, there is no pressure to speak out. Any member can come and listen to other people’s stories. Whether or not to share one’s own experience is a personal choice.
3. Therapeutic Conversation
Members of GA know the listeners are going through the same problems as the speakers. There is no judging. This is why sharing personal stories is much easier, even for those who dread public speaking. Members are willing to listen and relate.
Hearing someone else’s stories makes you understand that you are not alone — many other people are struggling with the same issues daily. Some members of GA have visited the meetings for years, and they treat each other like family.
4. System of Support
Friends found at GA become a support system for many years. This goes far beyond the first year of recovery — sometimes, for a decade and longer. These people may remain in each other’s lives forever. It is comforting to know someone understands the challenges you face on a daily basis.
The Bottom Line
GA helps gamblers in the UK keep their impulses under control. They overcome addiction by sharing personal stories and connecting to other members of the fellowship. All ages, genders, ethnic groups and religions are welcome. When self-control in gambling becomes a problem, joining GA is the best choice. It guarantees a safe and stress-free environment where other people with a similar experience will support you.