Hi, I’m new. I’ll try to keep this brief but hopefully this is the start of something good.
I’ve read a few introduction posts and a lot of it sounds familiar. I’ve gambled for about 20 years - I remember my first ‘big’ bet (well it was for me at the time), a bet on a horse using money from a credit card. So the new laws have come 20 years too late for me, but it’ll hopefully save young men like I was from getting themselves in a credit mess, like I still am! The horse got beat by the way, and I went on to lose thousands on that credit card.
I’ve also borrowed money from every source possible. I think I’ve just about exhausted all avenues now! I’ve also had pay days where I’ve been left with about £7 in my account from a months wage after the payday lenders have all taken their share. Dark days. That was about 6 or 7 years ago and still I’m in the vicious circle. Incidentally I have a decent job and paid reasonably well. It never feels like it though.
I recently became a Dad and I know I can not afford to be irresponsible any longer. Last month was tough financially - my fault, not Christmas!
I’ve had enough. I’ve known I’ve needed help for a LONG time. I’ve tried to do it on my own but I’ve always ended up at the mercy of gambling.
Anyway, I’m feeling fairly positive that with the right support I can recover, and if I can help anyone else along the way that’s a bonus.
Dear @macca82,
Welcome to the forum! Thank you for sharing your post and for taking the brave step to reach out for support and admit there is a problem, this is a big step and it's great progress so well done.
Congratulations on becoming a Father too, this is wonderful news.
Although overcoming problem gambling is a challenge, it is one that many people go on to achieve and you too can also go on to live a life that is gamble free.
There are many strategies that we can talk though with you and you will learn of others experiences around problem gambling by continuing to access our forum and live chat room that opens twice a day.
Have you tried self exclusion? Or a bank account that blocks gambling transactions and gives you the ability to put a limit on the daily amount you are able to withdraw? Some people find giving financial control over to a trusted person helps too, it's important you find what works for you and what you're comfortable with as everyone's journey is unique and so is their recovery. Perhaps some counselling sessions would help too?
We would always encourage you to open up to your support network where possible and to make an appointment with your GP if you've experienced any detrimental changes to your health and mental health from the problem gambling.
There are other organisations that can give help with debt and any financial matters, please see the below links:-
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
https://www.nationaldebtline.org/
Remember to be kind to yourself, to believe in yourself and your ability to get through this. Your future does not have to be this way. You can change this, you can break the cycle and we're here every step of the way with you.
If you, your Family or Friends would like further support then please call our helpline on 0808 8020 133 or access our Netline (web chat) via our GamCare website. We're open 24/7, seven days a week and we can also arrange a free referral for counselling if needed.
Sending you all the best,
Kindest Regards
Joanne
Forum Admin
Thank you. I have tried self exclusion in the past and this is a method I will use again. I’m not in a position to entrust my finances with somebody else at the moment as I haven’t told anybody about my addiction. I’m sure it wouldn’t come as a surprise to some people, but I’m ashamed to admit it to them. Thanks for the advice. I will access some of the support on this site 🙂
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