I'm completely new to this. I've had a gambling problem for the last 12 months. It all started during the first lockdown me and my partner weren't getting along so well and had a lot more free time than I normally would. I started just as a way to kill time and I enjoyed it for a while. Then found myself spending more and more and even getting myself into a lot of debt.
Recently I've come clean to my partner and my parents after having no other option and they've agreed to help me if I seek out support and this seems to feel like the hardest part, because I actually have to admit I have a problem.
1 week gamble free and devoting myself to each day.
Hi @kirsty0308
Welcome to the GamCare Forum and for sharing your post.
You are not alone in the way gambling can occupy daily lives for people. There is plenty of support available to you and you have made a really positive step today by posting your story.
Please feel free to contact the GamCare Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or Netline to explore the additional support available to you. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you would like to talk to one of the GamCare HelpLine advisers.
Could I also give the details for some organisations that can offer some free debt advice.
National Debtline – 0808 808 4000, www.nationaldebtline.org
StepChange – 0800 138 1111, www.stepchange.org
Keep Sharing,
Helen
Forum Admin
Hi Kirsty,
Welcome to the forum.
This forum offers you the opportunity to learn as much as possible about gambling addiction and allows you to log your recovery in your diary. I would advise you to make an entry every day to begin with and to read as many diaries as possible. You will learn a great deal and become part of a very supportive network.
Just over 700 days ago was my last bet and by the end of this month I will be two years gamble free. My last bet resulted in my losing over £10k in an hour. I didn’t start at this point. Many years before I’d be upset at losing 20 pounds but this addiction gets progressively worse if not arrested and has the capability of taking everything from you. I managed to stop before that happened.
I was ready to stop. I was tired and couldn’t sleep. I was worried and didn’t want to tell anyone. I didn’t know how to stop or what to do. I came here and found the courage to stop and the tools for coping.
My life is far different today. I run a lot. I found it helped me a great deal. Running is a different type of hard but it’s healthy and gave me time to think. Perhaps you could try something new to focus on.
I try to focus on the positives of not gambling which are many. I never dwell on my decision to quit. It was the best and most important decision of my life. Gambling can destroy lives, relationships, work etc. I have eliminated that threat from life.
I wish you well.
RR
Hope your keeping well I'm also new to this site although I was aware I hadn't joined up still got that sick feeling but try to look forward take care
Take it one day at a time mate that's all we can do
Hi kirsty0308
keep going, I’m sure because of lockdown we will see many more on here, rouletteregret that’s amazing, I’m 3 weeks in but started again 3 years ago after a 7 year break and not missing it at all although I do need to fill my time so may take up running like you said ?
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