gonna lose everything :'(

Hi Jodie

It does not really matter what form our gambling takes, the consequences are the same and the solutions are pretty similar. You have recognised that you have a problem and also that you want to do something about it and that is the only place to start from. I would like to suggest the following:

1 Tell someone that you trust, preferably your partner, about your addiction to scratch cards. A good friend or loving partner or parent will only want to help and support you and that will be invaluable.

2 Get the experience and support of someone who has been where you have been. There are plenty of such people on this site. There is also Gamblers Anonymous, although as an organisation they are quite inconsistent. If you let me know which area you are from, I can do some research and find you a good local group.

3 Endeavour to find someone who will keep in touch with you via texts or phone calls for support and advice during the very important first weeks and months.

4 Put barriers in place to make it as difficult as possible for you to buy scratch cards in the future. The more difficult you can make it for yourself the better chance you will have of succeeding.

The longer that you can distance yourself from your last bet or gamble, the easier it will become, but even in times of strength, it only takes one moment of weakness to cause a relapse. That is why it is important to have support around you, people who understand the process of giving up and barriers to prevent you acting on your urges.

Jodie, the things that I have suggested above have all helped me reach a year without gambling and a much richer and fulfilling life for me and my family. I can only encourage you to consider them. I wish you well.

Ken