Interesting that you see gambling as a way of ‘relaxing’ when as we know it is anything but. What gambling does do, (like other addictions) is blot out what is going on for us. Does your sister know about your gambling? Could you have a talk about how difficult news could have an effect on you? If you are feeling lonely is there someone you can call – a GA contact maybe? What sort of treat can you give yourself that does not involve gambling, (or beer if that leads to gambling?). What would have been a treat before you spent time at casinos? For me it was spending more time in chat rooms talking nonsense to complete strangers who later became friends.
Good that you are cutting yourself off from the means of gambling. Having to do something extra to have money will give you time to pause and reflect about what you are going to do – time to make a phonecall maybe? Keep strong. Share with others what is going on for you and with support you can keep gamble-free.