First time writing

Hi cj, as well as the usual drivers behind problem gambling I think the feeling of it being 'an insurmountable problem' also drives people to carry on gambling. That very uncomfortable out of control feeling is definitely something that made me carry on. Youre overwhelmed and if I were you I would call the helpline and get good advice from advisors who will not judge you they can help you plan a path away from this. First and foremost block access to whatever method of gambling you use. Nearly a year ago now I got in touch with gamcare and slowly but surely I got back on the right path, is it easy? ...no but it is SO SO worth the effort to get your life back. It does get easier but it's always there, give it the respect it deserves you can live gamble free. You can do this !

Thank you Charlie, I’ve taken the first steps and blocked the online access, contacting the helpline is next. You’re completely right, I’ve been driven to gamble so many times because I feel it’s the only way out, a couple of wins and things get back on track but it’s just a trick. It’s been two days without any gambling, I’m celebrating my girlfriends birthday this weekend - it was a dreadful feeling having chucked away so much on Wednesday knowing this was just around the corner. But, today will be a good day. The forum has already been a great help, I hope everyone has a good day today.

Hi CJ,

I'm so glad you are getting support on here ? I have only stopped 8 days ago after 7 years!  So early days.. But though hard and yes I understand the self loathing.. Its horrendous!! I feel so relieved to have put Gamstop in place and this forum is brilliant.. Gamcare also referred me to counseling and that has been priceless.. All this support eventually led to me deciding to stop!!  You never ever win.. You know it is the casinos, bookies who are the winners in the end!!

But you can do this, you can feel a worthy person again and you are a good person I'm sure.. Its the addiction!! We are all worthy, I truly believe, even though it is early days for me and I have a long way to go... But the support I have had already from this forum and reading others brave stories has inspired me and encourages me to beat this one day at a time ? and I hope you can do this too.. I believe you will.

Charlieboy.. You are so inspirational and kind.. You speak such wisdom and have come so far!! I'm sure may people on here take great comfort from your support.. I have. I hope you have to CT..

Best wishes ?

Hi CJ

Well done for posting , sounds like it's a tricky time for you but you got to a good place last year and you can get to that point again with the right steps , support and strategies in recovery . 

Please feel free to contact the GamCare Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or Netline to explore the additional support available to you. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you would like to talk to one of the GamCare HelpLine advisers.

Stay strong and keep posting .

Kirk 

Forum Admin

Hi Joannie and Kirk, 

thank you for the kind words of support on my first postings here. Joannie it’s great to hear you are also making these steps and I hope you have found it easier. Agreed, it is encouraging to see others success at beating this addiction here, and I intend on visiting regularly to take motivation. Kirk, thank you for the information I will certainly be making a call this week.

Have my parents at my place as it is also my mums birthday this weekend, still feel so awful for having slipped so far back, but it has been nice to finally have a weekend where I haven’t gambled. Last day of the premier league would have been a big one too in my personal circumstance. I hope to eventually watch sport, and support my teams without considering a bet alongside. Feel sport might have to be completely avoided for a while though. 

I hope everyone has enjoyed their weekends.

C J