Since my first post a few days ago, I’ve been doing some heavy research into ways of helping my boyfriend. First of all, we have downloaded the blocking software from GamBan. And, I must say I have been very pleased with it so far. I managed to find a promo code online for a 3-month free trial (Use the code:“TheBandit1981” ). You can use it on up to 3 devices. So far, I have downloaded it on my laptop and both mine and my boyfriends phones. After 3 months, you can choose to opt out or continue and I think it costs around £10/€11 per device for a year which is definitely worth it.
Secondly, for anyone living in Spain looking for help with self-exclusion, I attach the website that will help. https://www.jugarbien.es/contenido/registro-de-interdiccion
This is the Spanish government website for responsible gambling and also information about self-exclusion. You can either download an application form or do an online application (only if you’re registered for the digital certificate) and this will exclude you from both online gambling and entering any type of gambling establishment all over the country. I have filled out the forms and we will be handing them into the post office tomorrow. Although, I am a little skeptical about this because the casinos here aren’t as strict as other countries, they rather ID and you can just walk in and sit at the bar and drink, they are quite casual. So, I will be doing my own checking in his local casino so see if they have received the information. It says we will receive a notification in the post about the procedure in the next two weeks.
Thirdly, I printed off the self-help worksheets from this website and thought they would be a good start to help him write down some feelings and emotions. He was quite reluctant to begin with, however after some persuasion I saw he had made an effort and started to fill it out. I was pleased with what he had written as it showed me he is aware of the positive/negative of gambling and what his triggers are.
It hasn’t been a week since finding this site however I feel it has helped me immensely. I find talking my own kind of therapy.
Thanks for listening. 🙂