Your post doesn’t sound negative to me, but real. Weekends can be difficult without work to distract. What did you do to relax before gambling? Could you pick it up again? Is there something you always wanted to do but felt you didn’t have time for?
Drinking wasn’t a trigger for me, but when I stopped gambling I drank more – I had more time! But I have seen people switch one addiction for another, be it food, drink or shopping etc.
I used to do courses at weekends from basic counselling to dancing, but that wouldn’t be relaxation for some. I hope the suggestions help. Maybe people will chip in with others.