So in 2017 at 20/21 years old I came to terms that I probably was showing signs of gambling addiction. It was well before in reality but looking back it took me nearly 3 years to finally realise the damage I was doing to myself and people around me.
Fast forward to April 2020, after numerous failed attempts of trying to become GF. Using blocking software, transferring funds etc all which failed as I would find a way to gamble. I would find ways to exploit PayPal, different bank accounts etc. I was failing myself and the people who were trying to help.
in April of 2020 I decide enough was enough. I focused my energy on other things. I had a baby due December. ( She was born on Christmas Eve - happiest moment of my life)
I made the step of changing. I signed up to GamStop which I use to it’s full potential. I know mow that I can’t gamble and if I do I’m a fool as the casinos have the right not to withdraw the funds if I am trying to trick the system.
August 2020 I managed to save enough for a house. In 4 short months I managed to save more money than I have in other 4 years. I have a very well paid job for a 23 year old. Which did not help with the gambling. I paid off all my credit cards and debts also
Me and my girlfriend moved into our house and then last week the birth of my daughter topped off probably the most successful year on record for me.
1. became a dad
2. bought a house
3. HAVE DONE OVER 270 days without a single bet - hahahaa f the bookies for 5 years you ruined my life but now I can say you are a distant memory
I can proudly say I put no restrictions in place other than signed up to gamstop. When I changed my mindset I changed. There isn’t a magic pill or software that fixes this addiction it’s your own mind. When you truly believe enough in enough YOU WILL CHANGE YOU WILL DO IT.
can’t wait for the one year mark (April 2021) and then also a full clean 2021. You ain’t going to become a millionaire you are just destroying everything around you. Live for the moment, enjoy getting fish and chips with the family. Because if you gamble all day every day you can’t even do that. Little things like that go a long way.
Honestly, if I can do it, you can. I’m not out the woods yet but I’ve never have come this far. I can openly say gambling is the last thing on my mind these days. However I won’t get complacent as I know I could easily get roped back in
All the best
Sam
Hi Sam
thank you for sharing your story and well done on the progress you have made. It’s sounds like your life is a completely different story to a few years ago and that is a result of getting to grips with this awful addiction. You should be immensely proud and it’s great to hear positivity.
here’s to a happy and gamble free future.
Lively
Hi samtrowsdale,
What a wonderful story. A story in which I found a million reasons to tell you don't screw it up. Love, happiness & most importantly every reason not to go back to that awful life of addiction. Bless you, bless your partner & bless that beautiful little girl. The world's your oyster. Thanks for sharing a story of hope & triumph.
Bless the three of you
Al
Well done Sam! Good work buddy. Keep vigilant and best of luck to you ?
This is an amazing read and just want to say well done and not to sound patronising but especially as you are still pretty young. Excellent stuff. I'm 38 and I am really struggling. Lost my girlfriend because if gambling and have nothing. I'm glad you are doing so incredibly well.
This is an amazing read and just want to say well done and not to sound patronising but especially as you are still pretty young. Excellent stuff. I'm 38 and I am really struggling. Lost my girlfriend because if gambling and have nothing. I'm glad you are doing so incredibly well.
Hi I've just read your story on my dinner break massive help for me today that good luck this year pal
Thanks for this really needed it cheers mate
XM,
There is light at the end of the tunnel. It takes time, effort and energy to progress onto the next level.
I do have suggestions if you to hear them.
All the best
Xoi
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