I am pretty new here 37 yo, I mainly view posts and haven't posted until now.
Online slots were the downfall for me. Signed up to Gamstop but stupidly thought I was in better control after the year so lifted it.
One day I just had enough, always losing money in the long run. So much over the years, that I try not to think of it but an expensive lesson to be learned from.Â
Then had a realisation that I don't view money as money where gambling is concerned, there's no self control. Over the years in the early days, mid twenties, it was the odd tenner here and there but quickly leapt up to multiple deposits of hundreds until no spare cash left. I'm lucky I always paid my bills first and never got into any problems as a result. Just unable to save or get things done as it was all gone and then living on nothing until payday, then repeat.
I watched loads of videos of people's own gambling struggles and their inspiring journeys to beat this.
Realising I've been wasting so much time as well as money, so many other ways to enjoy and pass the time.Â
I have signed back up to Gamstop for 5 years, no desire to ever go back to this. 20 days so far. I know it'll always be there in the back of my mind but we are stronger than we know. Honestly the first few days were tough but the good news is it gets easier and I feel back in control. Within a week it wasn't actively on my mind and gambling ads didn't trigger or entice me.
Payday was nice today, I actually worked out what I could do with it, and it's not going to be lining the pockets of the bookies.
The feeling I had seeing my hard earned money is there for me and my family and I'm no longer seeing myself as a victim to this it far outweighs the pitfalls of getting sucked back into this.Â
Keep going. Distract yourself and the feeling you get when this no longer defines you and controls you is so, so great!Â
Ps if you are in any doubt thinking of trying to control this yourself, you'll likely struggle. Use what resources you can for support. Click that button on Gamstop if you have a problem with online gambling, you will not look back.
Dear Miglet,
Thanks for reaching out to the forum with your post, it’s a really positive step and affirming for others to read how you have struggled for so many years and now taken the step to set up Gamstop and are determined to stay gamble free now. It is also positive that you are already seeing the benefits with having pay day and being able to use this for you and your family. Well done for managing 20 days so far.
I also wanted to let you know that there is other support available – if you are struggling with urges you can contact our helpline 24/7 on 0808 8020 133 or via our live chat, and we can refer you to a local treatment team, or there is Gamechange, online modules you can do to prevent relapse.
There may also be other support that the helpline can signpost you to, as well as Gamstop, there is also GamBan which is blocking software you can set up on devices, and we can give you a free link to set this up.
You could also start doing a regular recovery diary, as like you have posted above, talking about the progress you have made, what supports you and the benefits of staying gamble free can be really affirming for yourself and others to read.
I hope you continue to post here and reach out for support, and wish you all the best with your recovery.
All the best,
Carla
Forum Admin
My first day tomorrow my problem is online slots as well I use online and two bingo halls I’ve self excluded myself from online for 5 years and self excluded from both bingo halls tonight and I have no intentions of finding any new places to gamble but keep thinking it can’t be as easy as it seems having blocks in place but I’ve not done a day yet x
@spendspendspend you have done the right thing, the first few days are normally where you might find yourself thinking about it a lot. Try to distract yourself with other things that can fill your time, one day at a time. It will get easier and you will always have support here. Sending positive thoughts your way, we can do it.
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