Hi, just wanted to share with you all that I've just self-excluded (for 6 months) online from everywhere I used to play, so it's my day zero. The last time I stopped gambling for any length of time was for about 2 years from 2012-2014. I used to come on here and read a few articles silently, and ventured onto the live chat a couple of times. I don't know at the moment whether I'll need much support, but I'm just glad this site exists in case I do.
Hello Steve-CG and welcome to the forum.
You have taken some really positive steps today.
As I am sure you will find, the Forum is a welcoming and supportive space which allows you to talk to others who may also be experiencing similar issues to yourself.
Should you be in need of any further support with your recovery, please feel free to contact the helpline on 0808 8020 133 or via our live chat available from the website https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/ both of which are open seven days a week, 24 hours a day and where one of our advisers will be able to talk, for as long as you need, and look at all the support available to you.
Wishing you all the very best,
Jo
Forum Admin
Hope you stay away from it all forever. I did the same two days ago. After 17 years of hell.Â
Hi, well done for excluding, my only question is why only for 6 months. Do you think you will be able to cope after this period and won't be tempted or are you planning on returning to gambling and you have already said you stopped for 2 years before relapsing.
I ask as I know myself that when I used to exclude for short periods I was counting the days until I could gamble again. I stopped gambling 4 months ago after 5 years of getting into serious money trouble and have registered with Gamstop for 5 years and put betblocker on my phone, again for 5 years. I would hope that I can get through these 5 years and then again register for the maximum period so that I never gamble again.
We are all different so good luck and get all the support you can.
Well done Steve.
Like is all, I hope you can stay gamble free.
I’m 20 days in after last having a real attempt nearly 4 years ago. GamCare has proved to be a great source of support. Previously I used GA which was great but my local meeting is not happening at the moment.
I find the twice daily chat room on here like informal GA meetings and really useful as a check in, helping others, helping yourself, sharing knowledge, experiences etc etc.
I’ve also got some CBT coming up with NHS through Northern Gambling Centre.Â
Hope to hear from you more on your journey but for now welcome and I hope your weekend is going well
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