I have lost about 4000 euros this year and gambled over 16000 euros already it is very hard for me to stop. When I get stressed gambling is my retreat I need to stop and be more happy however it is very addictive. Has anyone managed to stop it by themselves and if yes how? How did others do it what mechanisms did you use?
I’m currently on day 138 g/f and for the majority of that have been doing it alone. It can be done but it needs you to put allot of work in. Spend a whole day attacking the addiction. This is important as it gets everything out in the open with yourself. Write down all your outgoings and incomings, every casino you use, every loan etc.. Next go fine that list and address each one. Block each casino. Add Gamban and Gamstop. See how much money you are wasting. Come up with a plan to get out of debt if you are in debt. Assign all you money to the things you need and have a plan for any left over. Open a bank account that allows gambling blocks. This will all take a while but you will feel a huge relief after you have done this. Day 1 is about taking away the option to gamble and making you accountable for all the mess gambling has caused.
the next few days you need to address the addiction. Sign up for GA. Start a diary. Read everything in here to see the pitfalls and successes. Seriously consider telling someone. Having the secret out in the open is important. My family know about it and regularly call me to ensure I am ok.
Now you need to change the way you live. Gambling is a habit. You need to break the habit. Find a hobby, anything to focus you away from gambling. I read allot of books now. The urges quickly go away and as long as you keep focusing you can beat this. Write down just how bad you feel now and if you are tempted to gamble, go back and read this. It’s easy to forget how bad things are when you start having money again so remind yourself why you are never gambling again. Never think you are in control. You may feel that way, but one bet, will lead to more.
Hope this helps a little.
Stay strong 💪
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