[noddyshead]

This is my first ever post. I am not sure what I am sharing is the correct content but here I go.

I started gambling at 22 years ago. Started with slots in Pubs and developed to amusements on a Friday pay day.

I then started with bookies and that little Irish Leprechaun hooked me. I would feed note after note into the machine hoping for the jackpot.

Then smart phones appeared and the rest is history.

In 2010 my gambling was that bad I had to file for bankruptcy. It wasn’t solely down to gambling but it certainly contributed.

Even after bankruptcy I continued to gamble. I met a girl and after a few years we got engaged. I would gamble daily, she never found out. It wasn’t until a few months before the wedding I suffered my first anxiety attack. I honestly thought I was dying. I came clean to my parents and told them of my gambling issue. They were great as they always are. Unfortunately I only disclosed a small part of the truth. Because I was so wrapped up in gambling and sneaking around financially I completely missed the struggles in my relationship. My fiance got up and left 2 weeks before the wedding. Looking back I now realise this was a result of gambling addiction.

I actually stopped gambling for a couple of years. I used GamStop. I started behaviour therapy for anxiety and things felt good for a while. I don’t know what happened….

I have my dream job, gorgeous partner and a child on the way. I can’t stop gambling. For the past 2 years I have gambled every penny. Even as I write this 3 days after payday I have gambled everything. I am constantly in a cycle trying to figure out how to afford the next day.

My partner and employers have no idea. My parents know a small part of the addiction. I’m tired of lying. I know if I don’t stop I will lose everything again.

I am determined to stop. I have again put blockers on my phone and will use distraction techniques to try and get away from gambling.

I am absolutely determined to stop this cycle. Not only for me but everyone who cares for me. I can’t continue lying…..

[Dunc]

Hello and thanks for starting a thread in the Gambling Therapy forums

Here at Gambling Therapy we pride ourselves on being a caring and diverse online community who can help and support you with the difficulties you’re currently facing. We understand that this might be a tough time for you, particularly if you’re new to recovery, so come here as often as you need to and participate in the forums, access online groups and connect to the live advice helpline if you need one to one support. We’re in this together!

Here on the forum you can share your experiences in a safe, supportive and accepting environment. The beauty of writing it all down is that you can take your time and you will be creating a record of your progress that you can look back on if it ever feels like you’re not moving forward. So, share as much or as little as you like but do try to stick to keeping just one thread in this forum so people know where to find you if they want to be updated on your progress or share something with you.

As well as the forums New Members are invited to join Charles in the New Members Practical Advice Group On Mondays at 21:00 (UK) and Thursday at 19:00(UK)

And on that note….

I’m going to hand you over to our community because I’m sure they will have some words of wisdom for you 🙂
Take care
The Gambling Therapy Team

PS: Let me just remind you to take a look at our privacy policy and terms and conditions so you know how it all works!

[jvr3419]

Hi noddyshead welcome and good on you for taking the first step to your recovery. It takes alot to admit we need help so just for that you deserve a gold star 🌟 😊. It’s not an easy road ahead but it does get better with alot of hard work and willingness. We are here for you and im wishing you lots of strength.

[brenda01]

I hear what you are saying, like I am listening to myself. I myself was a closet gambler.

My son who is nine years sober told me to take one minute at a time. Don’t look behind and only focus on the minute.

Hang in there, you got this. I am 8 days gambling free and I find this forum so helpful!

I hope you write down your feelings in here whenever they come to your mind!

[Author]

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