Day 1 on gamcare please help!!!

Hi Ricky

You're 25!! You are a long way from being too far gone. If you stop today you could pay that money back comfortably within a year (I'm guessing you work, but even if you don't you can get a job.) You have to let the losses go and you have to allow yourself time to heal. It’s going to hurt for the next few weeks but try and remember the feelings you are experiencing now the next time temptation enters your mind.

Try and find some other activity to take your mind off of things. Put blocks and barriers in place to stop you gambling and talk to people about it. Maybe tell your girlfriend a little bit of information and gradually reveal the whole story to her. You can get free counselling through gamcare. When it’s out in the open it helps.

There is light at the end of the tunnel and you can reach it every day by choosing not to gamble.

I wish you all the best in you’re recovery

Hi westsider.

Thanks for your quick response. I am going to open up about my addiction with her and maybe this will help.
As for other activities I'm starting to think of hobbies which I could do in my spare time to help prevent me gambling.

Did you seek counseling to help yourself out?

Thanks for your advice.

I've had counselling in the past and it did help. My problem is complacency. I’ve had long periods of time away from gambling, sometimes over a year and I think I can just start again in a controlled way. This never the case. I had a big relapse at the end of last week and I’m licking my wounds once more.

Talking about things with your friends is always helpful. Everyone knows I’m a compulsive gamblers and that means more people look out for me. Do you know what your triggers are? Are there certain times or situations you’re more likely to gamble? Have you had any time away from it since you started 7 years ago.

Boredom!! Thats the only reason I gamble. I work different shifts to my other half and when I'm home all afternoon I gamble often. I did stop for 8months 2years ago and I felt great for doing it. Then when to a dog race in Hall green for a friend birthday and that started me off again.

I also watch slot streaming on YouTube to try and fulfill my urge do you think this helps in any way?

Thanks ricky.

Anything that will stop you from actually gambling can't be a bad thing. I wouldn't personally watch gambling related activities because they would feed my urges. Just take it one day, one moment at a time. If you don't gamble it has been a successful day. If boredom is your trigger, then take part in an activity that keeps you occupied. I like to go on long walks and write. Start a diary on here and write about whatever you like. I'm committed to committing to my recovery. You will see me all over the forum. There is so much help and support here if you want it.