Why Taking Control Matters
In the high-stakes world of casinos, where the thrill of a jackpot can feel like a siren’s call pulling you deeper, deciding to step back is a bold move toward reclaiming your life. For many, “86ing” yourself—slang for self-exclusion—means putting up a barrier against the magnetic pull of gambling. It’s not just about avoiding losses; it’s about protecting your mental space, finances, and relationships from the quiet erosion that unchecked habits can cause. As someone who’s covered stories of recovery and resilience, I’ve seen how this step can turn a downward spiral into a path of empowerment, much like redirecting a river’s flow before it floods.
Whether you’re dealing with mounting debts or simply want to nip a risky habit in the bud, self-exclusion programs offer a structured way out. These initiatives, available at most casinos and online platforms, let you voluntarily ban yourself from gambling venues. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all process; it requires intention, follow-through, and a bit of strategy to make it stick.
The Core Steps to Self-Exclusion
Getting started involves a series of deliberate actions that put you in the driver’s seat. Think of it as building a personal firewall—one that’s customized to your situation and fortified against slip-ups. Below, I’ll break it down into actionable steps, drawing from real-world scenarios I’ve encountered while reporting on addiction recovery.
Step 1: Assess Your Readiness and Gather Information
First, take a moment to reflect on why you’re making this choice. Is it the sting of regret after a big loss, or the growing distance from loved ones? Whatever your motivation, start by researching self-exclusion options. Most major casinos, like those in Las Vegas or Atlantic City, have programs that ban you for a set period—six months, a year, or even permanently.
- Check casino websites or apps: For instance, if you’re in Nevada, visit the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s site for details on their self-exclusion list. Online platforms like DraftKings or BetMGM often have digital forms you can fill out from home, saving you the awkwardness of an in-person visit.
- Understand the rules: Policies vary; some casinos might require ID verification, while others, like those in the UK under the GamStop program, allow you to exclude from all licensed sites at once. This step is like mapping a route before a long drive—it prevents surprises down the line.
Make this personal: Jot down your reasons in a journal, turning abstract feelings into concrete words that can anchor you when temptation creeps in.
Step 2: Initiate the Exclusion Process
Once you’re informed, it’s time to act. This is where the emotional weight hits hardest—facing the reality of your decision—but it’s also where the relief begins. Contact the casino directly or use online portals to submit your request.
- Go in person for physical casinos: At places like the MGM Grand, you might need to speak with security or a dedicated representative. Bring identification, as they often photograph you for their database. I once spoke with a man who described this as a “cleansing ritual,” emerging from the casino feeling lighter, as if he’d shed an old skin.
- Handle online gambling separately: For digital sites, log into your account and look for the responsible gaming section. Platforms like FanDuel make it easy with a simple click to self-exclude, often blocking ads and notifications that could lure you back.
- Set a duration that fits: If a permanent ban feels overwhelming, opt for temporary exclusion. One example: A teacher I interviewed chose a one-year ban, using that time to rebuild her budget and rediscover hobbies, comparing the experience to pruning a garden for new growth.
Remember, this step might stir up a mix of anxiety and liberation. It’s normal to feel a pang of loss, but that’s the sign you’re moving forward.
Step 3: Enforce Boundaries and Monitor Progress
Self-exclusion isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it deal; it’s an ongoing commitment. After initiating it, focus on reinforcing your decision to prevent any loopholes.
- Use third-party tools for accountability: Apps like BetBlocker can block access to gambling sites on your devices, acting as a silent guardian in your digital life. In one case, a young professional I profiled used this alongside self-exclusion to stay focused, likening it to having a steadfast co-pilot during turbulent times.
- Inform your circle: Tell a trusted friend or family member about your plan. They can help by steering conversations away from casinos or even joining you for alternative outings, like a night at a museum instead of the slots.
- Track your wins outside gambling: Keep a log of non-gambling achievements, such as saving money or enjoying a hobby. This builds positive momentum, much like collecting pieces of a mosaic that forms a fuller picture of your life.
Real-Life Examples That Inspire
To make this guide more relatable, let’s dive into a couple of stories that show self-exclusion in action. Take Sarah, a marketing executive from Chicago, who 86ed herself from local casinos after racking up thousands in debt. She started with a six-month ban, which gave her space to consult a financial advisor and explore therapy. Today, she volunteers for gambling awareness groups, turning her struggle into a beacon for others navigating similar waters.
Then there’s Mike, an online poker enthusiast, who used self-exclusion during the pandemic lockdowns. By excluding himself from sites like PokerStars, he redirected his energy into learning a new language, which not only filled the void but also opened doors to new career opportunities. These examples highlight how self-exclusion can be a springboard, not just a stopgap, transforming potential regret into real progress.
Practical Tips for Long-Term Success
Once you’ve taken the steps, keeping your resolve intact is key. Here are some tips that go beyond the basics, drawn from insights I’ve gathered over years of interviewing those who’ve walked this path.
- Create alternative routines: Replace casino visits with activities that spark joy, like hiking or cooking classes. One person I know swapped late-night gambling sessions for early-morning runs, discovering a rush that felt earned, not fleeting.
- Leverage support networks: Join groups like Gamblers Anonymous for peer support; it’s like finding allies in a shared quest. Online forums can offer anonymous advice, helping you navigate cravings without judgment.
- Monitor financial triggers: Set up app-based budgets to track spending, ensuring that old habits don’t creep back. Think of it as installing weatherproof seals on a window—small protections that guard against bigger storms.
- Reassess periodically: After your exclusion period, evaluate if you’re truly ready to return or if extending it makes more sense. This reflective approach can prevent backslides, much like a sailor checking the horizon before setting sail.
In the end, 86ing yourself from casinos is about rewriting your story on your terms. It’s a process that demands honesty and patience, but the payoff—clearer minds, stronger bonds, and financial freedom—makes it profoundly worth it. As I’ve seen in countless narratives, this choice can unlock a version of yourself that’s more vibrant and in control.