A family member of mine has admitted that they need to control their gambling (although it's not yet at financially dangerous levels, certainly they're not at the stage of hiding how many accounts he has) and i think putting blocks on his accounts would be enough to help him get out of the habit, although i do not trust him to do this himself.
I'm confident that I know all the usernames and passwords he uses. Would it be a good idea for me to login and put a block on his accounts?
Hi
If he's admitted he needs help to control his gambling things may be worse than he's led you to believe. They may not be of course but it's always advisable to see independent proof of any claims a CG makes especially as your gut instinct is already telling you not to trust him to close all the loopholes.
You can't help him until he wants help for himself and a CG who is determined to gamble will find a way round any block. Self excluding online accounts will ony go so far. You will also need to install blocking software to every device he uses to gamble but you should also be aware that once one outlet for the addiction is closed it can transfer itself to other outlets that haven't been a problem in the past. You should also be aware that once the line into addiction has been crossed it isn't possible for a CG to gamble in a controlled manner long term. He will need to abstain totally and do everything necessary to maintain that which is why you really need him to be on board with this.
Hello S1199191
Welcome to the forum it is a positive step that your family member has spoken to you about his gambling and has said that he needs to control his gambling. Talking with someone can be a first step in asking for help. It can help to encourage him to call us on the helpline and he can speak with an adviser about his concerns he can get information on self –exclusion and blocking software as well as information on other support available.
It is understandable that you want blocks put on as soon as possible however Self-exclusion from gambling sites has to be done by the person who has the account. Rushing someone into change may not help the person it is best that he takes responsibility and takes the steps to block gambling sites. Please see here some Information for partners, friends and family that may be a help for you http://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/partners-friends-and-family
You may also want to call the helpline for yourself to get some information and support for you
The Helpline contact number is 0808 8020 133 we are open 8am –midnight everyday
Keep posting we are here to support you
Take Care
Forum admin
Blocking his/her account wont solve all the problems, Strengthen your support network. It’s tough to battle any addiction without support, so reach out to friends and family for help. If your support network is limited, there are ways to make new friends without relying on visiting casinos or gambling online. Try reaching out to colleagues at work, joining a sports team or book club, enrolling in an education class, or volunteering for a good cause.
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