I had not gambled for over 8 months until 2 weeks ago. Now all i am thinking about is gambling to get that big hit and pay all the old debts of. I earn decent money but that just makes me gamble more ie: £4500 in last 2 weeks. I really think my problem is boredom and to much time on my hands. Had shoulder operation 4 weeks ago, was ok for 2 weeks then got bored with nothing to do. I need to keep myself busy all the time to take my mind of gambling but that is not always that easy to do. I guess what i am trying to say i do not want th urge to gamble no matter what i am doing.
Hello adammac6,
Welcome to the Forum.
I would like to say ‘well done’ for managing to stay off gambling for 8 months. This is quite an achievement. Having a relapse doesn’t have to mean that you get into it again. It is good that you have identified the reason that leads you to gambling because you can start thinking of other solutions to deal with your boredom. Having an urge to gamble does not go away unfortunately easily but you can learn ways to respond to it differently and find healthy distractions. You will see that the urge fades away eventually and it gets less strong and less frequent with time.
You could call GamCare and speak to an advisor who can provide in-the-moment support and can also refer you to face-to-face counselling. Talking to professional can help you start changing your behaviour around gambling. The lines are open from 8am until mid-night, seven days a week so you can call at a convenient time.
Best wishes,
Forum Admin
Hi adammac6,
Good idea would be to get a block put on your devices. There is the free one K9 or you can buy gamblock or betfilter.
If you use K9 write a password down something akin to BBff99ddee. Write it down use it the once and destroy it.
Obviously even though you will get the urges initially you won't be able to bet online.
I think counselling may help you before you get in too deep.
I'm on day 28 of not gambling. I've found coming on this site and posting has helped me greatly.
I also do the 2015 challenge which has also been very good for me.
Take Care Now.
Hi Mrstop
Thanks for the advice on the devices to stop online gamling. I will look at it and try it out.
I am going to get myself back to the gym when my shoulder heals as i found i really did enjoy the exercise and did not have much time to do much else once home.
I am on day 12 of not gambling now so will keep a log on pop back on here when i have time
Cheers
Adam
Sounds like your back in the saddle adam so well done. 8 months is fantastic so you know what its all about....people on here would give an arm for an 8 month respite.
Stay strong
Adam if you have done it before you can do it again.
The gym is a huge help for lots of people , even if your shoulder is not right try going to the gym for a run or swim you would be amazed how good it makes you feel.
You can go again and get past this , dont give in to gambling if you let it the gambling will take your whole life , only you can resist.
Good Luck
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