Visual Tool “SMT”

The Keys to Recovery

1. $ = Protect the money
2. S = Build in support
3. M = Avoid gambling locations
4. T = Keep busy

SMT

1 - $ = PROTECT THE MONEY

• Have paycheck direct deposited into safe account
• Carry minimum amount of money
• Open a joint bank account (2 signatures required to withdraw money)
• “Make finances transparent” with a friend, family member or partner
• Partner monitors finances regularly
• Credit review to detect secret credit cards
• Agree on amount of daily expense money
• Keep a minimum amount in a bank account
• Close all sources of money (extra credit cards, cash stores)
• Pay bills first and have a friend, family member or partner assist
• Buy gas/food cards
• Get barred from loans or pawnshop

SMT

2 - S = BUILD IN SUPPORT

• Go to self help groups – religious support (i.e. pastor)
• Admit gambling to someone close – mend bridges
• Outpatient counselling - rehab program
• Obtain financial counselling if needed
• Private counselling for personal issues

SMT

3 - M = AVOID GAMBLING VENUES

• Take different route to avoid gambling triggers
• Avoid the gambling locations (i.e. pub) or bring someone with you if going
• Have yourself barred from gambling locations
• Bring minimum money on your everyday
• Have alternate plan if upset and tempted to gamble

SMT

4 - T= FILL FREE TIME

• Pinpoint time of frequent ambling (weekly agenda) and fill that time slot with another activity/person
• Return to old hobbies or pastimes or create new ones
• Exercise – Rest – Nutrition
• Volunteer work

ADDICTIONAL RECOVERY IDEAS

• Toonie with photo of children, family, significant other
• Photo of partner/kids in wallet/purse
• Keep a happy face calendar
• Call a friend daily to report no gambling
• Get a pet (if empty home triggers gambling)
• Identify amount of $ that trigger urges to play
• Save for a dream trip/purchase
• Pick up pay on Monday instead of Friday
• Buy gas or food card
• Locked box for tips – cab drivers
• Collect tips with a friend (waitresses)
• Have money withdrawn from account automatically when paying bills. Also, have bills paid the same time paycheck is deposited into bank account
• When paying a bill with cash - call first
• Bring a book to read if bored
• Change to evening clothes after supper