Hi Pgofc,
If he is a “good friend” then can’t you speak to them. There are lots of other activities otehr than gambling that you can do. A good friend will stop inviting you to gamble with them, not talk about gambling etc
I would also avoid those “Free” poker sessions. They just keep the addiction tikcing over. Tyr and find other non gambling activities to fill your time.
Keep posting.
If alcohol weakens your resolve then maybe you need to avoid it. If you do drink then just have enough money to cover your drinks, then you can’t gamble.