Assuming that you do have a gambling addiction and you want to stop it, consider what addiction means. There are many ways to characterize addiction and what resonates for you can give you clues in how to stop your gambling. Be careful not to substitute one addiction for another. We humans are so creative that anything - behavior or substance - can become addictive for us.
Addiction can be seen as a behavior we repeatedly engage in regardless of how that behavior hurts us, or others around us. The question to ask yourself here is "what is the nature of my self harm?" Perhaps reflecting on "where did I first learn to hurt myself or others, and what were the consequences of such action that I somehow associated with a need which has now turned into a compulsion?"
Here you would be reflecting on your history with addictions, not just gambling, to gain insight into your own behavior. Gaining awareness of the nature, or causes, for what you do can be illuminating and set you on a different path, with practice.
Addiction can also be seen as a poor substitute for genuine human connection. As human beings we have a deep need to connect to each other but when relating to another human being is difficult, causes hurt, or reminds us of past hurts or relational traumas we might choose a substitute which can eventually grow into an addiction. If this situation resonates with you, first know that you are not alone. The structure of our contemporary society makes it very difficult to cultivate real relationships and the availability of addictive substances and behaviors is plentiful making stopping an addiction particularly difficult.
Addiction gains momentum through shame and guilt. In the addictive cycle, we first engage in harmful behaviors because the feeling of shame is too painful to bear. We choose to feel the excitement of the possibility of winning instead. But once started the addictive cycle takes over our better judgment and we hide our actions and later feel guilt about what we've done which, in turn, can throw us back into engaging in the addiction to "run away" or "hide" from the painful feelings of shame and guilt only to get caught up in a vicious cycle that controls our every action and takes our lives into a downward spiral.
Addiction can also be seen as a mental disorder, a disease. While there is much to the science of addiction, it is a bit dangerous to see addiction solely as a brain disease. This view takes away the empowerment human beings have to make choices no matter what the circumstances. However, understanding how and which neurotransmitters are involved in the various types of addictions can be helpful if you want to try medication to help with the power of the chemical reactions inside you. This route is fraught with danger as we can easily become addicted to medications so it needs to be carefully considered with the help of a qualified medical professional.
The 12-step program is a well know process that has helped many, many people with addictions. It is worth looking into. It is not the only way, of course, but if you have an interest in this approach, check out Russel Brand's book: "Recovery: Freedom from our addictions." It is a new take on a the 12-steps done with a good dose of humor.
I hope this answer helps you. As a final note, whatever the hardship in doing away with your addiction, it is worth it.
This question sounds like it is asking about gambling addiction; therefore, the answer can't be "well, just stop gambling." Gambling, as an addiction, is an "impulse-control disorder." A person with this disorder can't control the impulse to gamble regardless of knowing the consequences to gambling.
There are some signs and symptoms to look for in a person suspected of having a gambling addiction.
Does the person have trouble controlling their gambling?
Does the person feel the need to be secretive about their gambling?
Does the person gamble even when there isn't money available to gamble with?
As with any addiction, the first step is admitting that a problem exists. As long as an addict doesn't believe there is a problem, he/she will not take active steps to correct the problem. Next is to consider professional help; however, that is not the only option. Joining a support group or having an accountability partner are both good options to help deal with the "cravings" of gambling. Addicts can also find success in replacing the activity with a different activity. Exercise often works well because it floods the body with "feel good" hormones like dopamine and endorphines.
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/addictions/gambling-addiction-and-problem-gambling.htm
https://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Hormones-Released-After-Working-Out-19252431
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