Hi All,
I am a little nervous about writing this as the shame it makes me feel is overwhelming but here it goes...
My name is Mark and I am 32, I have gambled most of my adult life (Since I was 14 tbh)
It started off small enough but as the years have gone it has snowballed. I lost my house and entered into an IVA around 3 years ago. I currently live with my parents. Despite being in the IVA I continued to gamble and have taken out short term loans to finance my out of control habit (Latest loan being today) I am currently 3 months behind on my IVA (Imminent closure) and have built up around £4500 of short term debt. My family does not know this but may do soon as the threats from the companies are becoming every more apparant.
I am disgusted with myself that I am in this situation and my personal life is pretty much non existent.
I really want to turn my life around but just feel overwhelmed and no idea what to do. I hope I can find some solid advice here and, of course, thankyou for reading and I hope to gain some control.
Mark
Hi Mark,
Best thing i would say mate is to be completely honest with them. Its hard and many of us have been in the same situation and most would say that it feels better once people know your situation, like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. Having support off of friends and family is a massive help in the road to recovery. Put barriers in place such as self exclusions and blockers on your phone, having someone monitor your online banking is a good idea, that way it will help with the urges and the fact you do not want to let these people down. Telling them about this situation now before they find out themselves will make the situation so much better, Hiding and covering up will only make it worse.
Hope this helps and good luck.
Hi mark. Im new here too just done 5 days gf. I have huge debts to sort out. Start a diary and say from today you are not going to gamble again. There are much more experienced people on here who can recommend ways of helping you with debt, blocks and counciling. But put everything into this. First time in 10 years I seeked help. Stay strong
Hi Mark,
I am very sorry to hear this, I am literally only a few days gamble free. The amount of debts I have accumulated and what I have done to myself is crazy. Try and be honest, at least with someone as the stress can be overwhelming. I am thinking of going into an IVA and am also worried about relapsing whilst I am in the IVA. Try some counselling, talking about your problems might help.
Wish you all the best.
James
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