Gone too Far now it's time to change

Hi

Just as a word of hope for you, it's not going to be easy but there are systems you can put in place along with will power, I gambled for 44 years and am 99 days gamble free so if I can do it, anyone can

You may know but there are blocks you can put in place to start with. There is no point in bombarding you with things to do so you can get those by going to the chatrooms each day

1. Gamstop self excluded you online

2. Gamban will block all gambling websites on your devices

3. Moses for bookies and Sense for casinos

4. You can block your card from gambling at your bank

The next thing that's important is honesty and connection. I'm not going to tell you what to do but living a lie and not telling everyone is not going to help. You have spent some time isolating yourself with gambling and connection will start to rewire your brain away from gambling. You can get free counselling on here by talking to the amazing advisors just click talk to someone button. It's not easy opening up but it removes all the secrets

For the debt talk to StepChange

Try and come on the chatrooms and I am sure we can talk more. Just don't under estimate the addiction no matter how long you have gambled for. Complacency is dangerous in recovery

Stuart

Hi, 

I felt the need to comment on your post as I can really relate to what you’re going through. I’m a mum of 2 young children and my partner also has no idea about my gambling and the huge debt that I am in. The best advice I can give is to get an online block on your bank cards - it’s the only thing that’s stopped me from gambling. It’s very early days for me & I hate living a lie but telling anyone isn’t an option at the moment so I completely understand your position - despite the fact that most people on here will advise you to open up to friends and family. 
X

Hi Both

I completely understand where you are coming from. Opening up is difficult and it's a personal choice. Timing is everything and you can only do it when you are ready. I wouldn't say you have to do it. It's both of your own journeys. For me it was the one thing I was petrified of. What I have done is extremely serious and I live with that guilt but I had to tell everyone. I was amazed how supportive everyone has been in my family and it's allowed me to create a support network

Stuart