Hi All, I did just post this on my original forum in the new members bit, but I can’t find it now! I basically just wanted to give everyone a heads up, it’s been a crazy few months!
I am 224 days gamble free, something I didn’t think I would say 12 months ago. I have been able to save during this time and me and my girlfriend have finally managed to buy a house, something we have dreamt of for years. But not been able to do because of my gambling. I know I haven’t beaten this bas***d disease and I know I never will. But providing I avoid that first bet I know I’ll be fine.
I’m still seeing a counsellor once a week and it’s amazing. He’s so helpful and really given me practical things to put in place. The biggest difference to my life is that I’m watching far less sport. I’m still very much into my football, but I won’t watch a single minute of tennis as I know this is very dangerous for me. 8 months ago I couldn’t live without watching tennis, now the thought of watching it scares me to death!!
If your new to this site, keep your head high, take everyday as it comes and put everything in place that physically stops you gambling. Take the advice from others on here and before you know it you’ll be gf and living a better life.
Gambling does not make us happy, it tricks us into believe it does. But it definitely doesn’t!!
Good luck
I second everything you said.
however not everyone is triggered by watching a sport, I can now watch most things without the need to gamble, others of course can’t.
amazing progress, keep going my friend.
No of course not and I can happily sit and watch football, but I know watching tennis will trigger feelings I don’t want to feel, so the simple thing for me is to not watch tennis! Also watching sport unfortunately comes with watching plenty of gambling adverts, again not great for people who struggle with gambling problems.
Morning all...
Sorry for lack of posts, life is still busy. I just wanted to drop in as I’ve just got to a year GF (371 days now).. I can’t believe it. It’s been a crazy year, I started a new job, I’ve bought my first house with my partner, I’ve saved money, I’ve spent money (on the write things), I’ve enjoyed life and most of all, I’m happy in myself. I am able to say all of these things now because gambling is no long a part of my life. It’s important to realise that if gambling was and still is part of your life, you will find it very difficult to say anything of these things. I certainly wouldn’t of been able to if I was still in the trap that is gambling. Gambling only takes from your life, it brings nothing but pain, misery and loneliness. It isolates you from everyone and it leaves you with nothing. However, the main aim of my post today is to show that if you are struggling, if you feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel, I am proof that there is! I know I still have to keep my guard up and I know a year isn’t a long time, but for me it’s an achievement and a huge step in the right direction. In just a year my life has dramatically changed for the better and if you do the right things, yours can too! Surround yourself with people that love and care for you. Give someone control of your finances, my dad still checks my bank account and my partner goes through every receipt I have weekly, I have to account for every penny I spend and I’m glad that I am able to do so with nothing to hide. Seek the right help, talk to others, I’m still seeing my counsellor almost every week (and have done for a year). Block every avenue that would allow you to gamble (gamblock, self exclusions etc). Fill your time with other things that bring joy to your life. Don’t give up, there can always be a future, no matter what stage of life you’re at. Most of all, take each day as it comes. One day at a time.. if I was to look a year down the line, it wouldn’t be possible. But to wake up every day and tell yourself you won’t gamble today, is more than manageable. I’ve done that, every day, for 371 days. I will continue to take it one day at a time... good luck and please reply if you have questions, I am not perfect and I definitely haven’t beaten this (that will take me a lifetime) however I am moving in the right direction and will continue to do so!
I have just written my diary for today.. I am early days yet.. But these diaries help and to read yours adds support to us.. I am keeping busy and focused.. Not being rash and hasty.. Mapping out my day.. Routine but its work in progress and is progressing.
Yes agree. Gambling takes. Takes away everything. Gnawed it's way deep into my soul. I aged.. I lied.. I pretended to be happy.. I thought the people I met at casino were friends... The one track conversations about their losses and winnings bored me eventually.
I begin to struggle now driving past casino ad I know so many young ones especially are entering a path of misery.
So to finish. Thanks for your input and your advice has not fallen on stony ground.. Carry on as you are and keeping us posted.
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935 days GF here.. still going strong. Shout me if any of you need to talk. Keep going everyone, you can do this
Congratulations 4th time lucky - awesome achievement and this gives hope to anyone struggling.
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