Lost my wages every time I got paid for the last 7 years.

Trust us when we say it will only get worse and harder to control. I don't have the answers as I still struggle with gambling. But you're lucky even though your credit is destroyed if you don't have big debts ;most of us do. I would definitely seek counseling I understand if you are in the UK you can ring Gamcare and there is some help there. I am in the US but look into any counseling gambling specific especially because this is a turnaround point for you ,you are almost 20 years younger than me and it seems like you could still turn it around with some hard work and the right help. Good luck.

Hi Teee - I'm really saddened to read your story, I'm the mother of a CG. Although it has been a very difficult year since finding out about my son it has worked out better for him that we do know. It is an awful addiction. Have a good read around the forums there are plenty of advice and tips from people who have lived your life. The one thing I think works especially if you're at home is handing finances over to your parents, it was met with arguments at first in our case but it was for the best. Phone gamcare for some advice, there are free counselling sessions also available. If there is a GA group near you you could attend that. You're only 26 years old please stop doing this to yourself, give yourself a gamble free future for your own sake and those you love. I really do wish you well.

thanks for the comments guys, much appreciated.

I have already tried counselling via Gamcare online and in person. Both unsuccseful, my next route is to ask my GP to refer myself for CBT.

teee wrote:

thanks for the comments guys, much appreciated.

I have already tried counselling via Gamcare online and in person. Both unsuccseful, my next route is to ask my GP to refer myself for CBT.

Hi Teeeee.
Congratulations on joining GamCare forums, it's a very positive step and shows you want to quit, but I fear you've come here looking for the elusive "quick fix" where you wake up tomorrow as a none gambler.
Sadly, that one doesn't exist. The reality is, as a compulsive gambler, every day from now is going to be a battle against yourself.

As a regular member here (2012 I joined, fallen off the wagon at least 5 times since!) I can assure you that it gets easier over time, most people seem to find 100 days (3 months or so) the big hump and after that it gets a bit easier to say "NO!", but it's different for everyone.
One thing is for sure, you can't carry on the way you are.
I did the same, from 16 until around my late 20's I spent every penny that came through my hands gambling. Paid on Thursday, skint by Friday and on rare occassions my girlfriend might get some money for food shopping - maybe once a month. No real debt to speak of, but not a penny of credit anywhere!

It's no way to live, I got sick of that life after losing my fiancee and realising that I was no use to anyone as a gambling addict. It calmed me down but I was soon at it again at full speed, right until my Dad died and I spent the inheritance in the casino.

Get proper blocks in place. Why did counselling not help? Were you not receptive to it? (I wasn't either, and I made sure I put the blame on THEM and not ME!). Again, there is no quick and easy fix, but a few sessions talking it out should help a little bit.

Blocks - gambling blocking software on all your digital devices (free, easy to install - no excuse not to)! Casinos and bookies; just tell them you fancy quitting, they'll give a self exclusion form and do it with a smile.

Bear in mind that the CBT is only a "talk" therapy too, same as the GamCare counselling, it just teaches you to recognise triggers.

Kevz,

Thanks for the reply, I am definately not here for the fast fix. I wish there was a fast fix - but ive tried to resolve this many times before fast and failed.

My day counter is abouts to hit 2 - I won't lie, I am looking forward to that 🙂

Are you gamble free now? and for how long?

I was doing ok for a couple of months Teee but December has been rough.
I'm not sure if it's the financial pressure of Christmas, or losing my Dad before New Year (30th December will be the tenth anniversary), but something at this time of year builds up and I always end up on a bit of a downwards spiral.

As we sit now, today was my first gamble free day in a couple of weeks. I had plenty of time today, and money in my pocket too, but I just decided enough was enough.
I actually walked past a bookies today and felt pity for the couple of lads playing the FOBT's. Not long ago I'd have had to force myself not to join them but more and more now I'm seeing this as a scourge on our society. It needs wiping out like they have in America.

sorry to hear that kev i hope you see a future for yourself gamble free i really do.

had a little money in my account and i have a few bills to pay, much more than what my bank balance shows - usually i would gamble to try and pay the full amount, paid a bill... feeling good.