Hi everyone
I had my first ever counseling session today with options and have finally admitted to someone that I am a compulsive gambler. Have been gambling for over 15 years and am in so much debt and despare that it's time to do something about it. I have already lost a home due to gambling and now I have a child and new partner I won't risk my time,money or health on this anymore. The main reason. For this is the bookies fobt machines.....I've lost so much money recently that I'm starting to have anxiety and mood swings. I have yet to tell my partner (have been lying to him and myself for so long) but will pluck up the courage once I'be had some more sessions. To be totally honest I think I will miss the reels and flashing lights...its like a drug addiction but enough is enough!!! I'm afraid to say I lost 600 this morning but will try my best to stay away and report back tomorrow x good luck to everyone else going through this...its a terrible and guilt ridden addiction
Hi,
114 days ago I had the same FOBT addiction as you. I broke down and confessed to my wife. Since that day I have not set foot in a bookmakers or arcade.
I was able to do this as any access to money that I had was removed. No card. No cash. Therefore I can't gamble. Bit of tough love from my wife there!!.
I occassionally having been given small amounts of cash BUT have had to provide receipts for every single penny.
Although it may not seem good at the moment I recommend telling your partner and allowing then FULL control of finances.
It may seem drastic but it will keep you away from those machines. Today I had £20 to get a bit of shopping. Passed 3 well known betting establishment s without a thought.
I am by no means cured but am taking things one day at a time. Well done for posting and joining the forum. I would recommend you read the diaries and take on board some of the tips.
Good luck. You can control the future.
Best wishes x
Thank you for your response balvaird. The problem is or should I say was, borrowing money from friends...sob stories about money for rent and bills when it would go straight into the terminal!! When I think about it now it's crazy yet sitting there watching the reels spin is one of the most hypnotic (and dare I say it, enjoyable) things!! I've never had a drug addiction but have a new found empathy for those that do!! X
Hi,
Personally I think one thing at a time. Tell your partner first. They are most important. Maybe you can both decide the best approach to the friends.
Deep breaths. It's very early stages and I still have the occassional dream about a FOBT.
Tomorrow you will not gamble. Tomorrow I will not gamble. Tomorrow lots of people on here will not gamble.
Best wishes x
Still no gambling!!! I made it through the weekend which is hard! Today has been a good day, not many urges but when it pops into my head I quickly think of something else...I will do this!
We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also contact us for free on 0808 80 20 133. If you would like to find out more about the service before you start, including information on confidentiality, please click below. Call recordings and chat transcripts are saved for 28 days for quality assurance.
