Posted: Sat 07 Jun 2014 09:42:18 by St16103
(Moved from 'Service Updates' section)
Hey this is my first time here, I don't normally post on forums but decided that now is the time that I need help. I never thought that I had a gambling addiction, but after this week I realised that I have. I started to gamble on slots back in 2006, ran up 5k of debts and then stopped. I started again a few weeks ago and have lost up to 1.5k, something hit me yesterday where I then realised let me stop this now before I get back into the downward spiral. I just find it very hard to let go of it all. I don't do much in the evenings and because of that I just start playing slots on my phone! Anyone have any advice?!
Hello St16103,
Well done for posting on the forum.
Sounds like you've identified that having free time in the evening is a bit of a trigger for you, so scheduling that time with social commitments might help you stay safer.
As well as self-excluding from the gambling sites you've been using, you might consider installing a browser on your mobile that blocks access to gambling sites (Gamblock for example offers a blocker for Android smartphones).
Do feel welcome to start a diary in the 'Recovery diaries' section if you think that using peer support online on a regular basis might help you to sustain your current motivation.
If you'd like to talk with a GamCare adviser about your gambling problem or your recovery methods, you can call our Freephone 0808 8020 133 or try the Netline.
Take care,
Adam.
Hi Adam - Welcome to our merry band. If you are not in the habit of posting on forums, do try to do so as you will find it such a help.
We all support each other here - just reading other people's stories will show you that you are not alone in your struggles. But even better is contributing on the Diary section or elsewhere - writing down your own feelings or supporting someone else really focuses you on recovery.
Best wishes for your journey.
Joanna
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