So... you will all know this story. I started gambling on football about 18 months ago - just little and following 'tipsters' - had some good wins and felt pretty good! Thanks to a dodgy housing situation I was struggling with money already as I was desperately trying to sell a house that my sister had been living in and refusing to pay rent. So I was feeling sorry for myself anyway, had been to the doctors for anxiety etc, and a bit of extra cash (as I saw it) helped out.
Fast forward a few months and I had a bit of spare time, so investigated a few online casinos and slots etc. To cut a long story short I began spending far too much time on these sites, winning very little and losing any spare cash I had. I sorted out my finances with Stepchange and managed to sell my house (with negative equity) - but ruined any little improvements by wasting hundreds of pounds cash on these sites. Last week, after losing my rent and any other spare cash for this month - including car payments and money for petrol etc, I finally investigated this site and it has been a revelation, finally self excluded from sites and am now investigating GamStop. I can't tell my partner - very worried about his reaction just as we are getting back on our feet and now have no money at all for this month.
I realise how lucky I am, I feel like it could be so much worse but am currently not sleeping or eating worried about how I will get through the next few weeks.
Hi lil I’ve just joined the site feeling so terrible I’ve lost my wages to gambling again This started about a year ago and I can’t belive how it has taken hold. I understand replies advising to tell your partner but I just can’t as he would go berserk. We are going on holiday this week and I’ve just spent my holiday money. So will need to ask my kids as they do know about my problem(addiction) I’m feeling awful can’t believe I’m doing this I’m not in the same position as some as well with mounting debts but I could be if I don’t get this under control. Just feel so ashamed of myself but I can’t even cry as it won’t help. I’m not sure how to post yet but just thought I would reach out.
Thanks everyone - yes, I understand completely that I should tell my partner, but I'm just so worried how he will take it. He's just got back on his feet with work and things himself and I’ve always helped him out and supported him. It would worry him no end.
And thanks Whatamess - I know exactly what it feels like, it's the realisation that you weren't in control that scared me. I've excluded from key sites but GamStop require extra identification which has slowed that down somewhat.
I have gamban on my iPad and phone for about 8 months, it’s great. Just have to keep out of the arcades, good luck x
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