I need help, I want to stop but I just can't.

Hi,

Put blocks in place  andget on GamStop . I've banned myself from all online and land based casinos and made it very difficult to gamble when the urge hits me. I've realised the fact I'm not getting my losses back and have drawn line under it. Move forward and focus on what you can control rather than putting your destiny on the roll of a dice or the spin of a wheel.

So sorry you are in a bad place but it's very positive that you are recognising that this is causing you a lot of pain and anxiety and that you want to stop.  Stopping  is hard but try and get blocks on everything. That was the scariest thing for me but it was the only thing that worked to get me stopped. 

Gamcare are a great support  and you should call them and speak to someone. Your whole focus has to be redirected when you're recovering and no access to gambling gives you that space and time you need to turn things around.  It isn't easy but it can be done and I really think you are on the right road . I stopped for six weeks about seven months ago but gambled again and got in a worse state but I think this time with the gamban and Gamstop in place I've made better progress but have to work at it. Hopefully you have support around you to encourage and help you.  You can do it. Wishing you the best ? Mary 

Hi WG1983,

Thank you for sharing your story with us on the forum today.

I can appreciate how difficult of a situation this is for you. Recovery from gambling harms is a difficult journey, however from reading your post’s it sounds like you have done some positive things in the past and currently, even if this is a difficult time for you.

Being gamble free for 11 day’s recently is a real achievement. Considering your gambling has been a problem for the past 15 years, 11 day’s is a good step in the right direction.

It is positive you have managed to ban yourself from online gambling. As you’ve also mentioned previously gambling on FOBTS, it may also be worth looking into self-exclusions from bookmakers and adult gaming center’s where you can find these machines. You can self-exclude from bookmakers using the MOSES scheme https://self-exclusion.co.uk/ Tel: 0800 294 2060 and BACTA https://bacta.org.uk/self-exclusion/ for adult gaming centers.

If you are struggling with depression and anxiety, I would encourage you to speak with your GP if you haven’t already. They are best placed to help you with your mental health if it is having an impact on your wellbeing. You can also consider contacting the Samaritans if you did want emotional support https://www.samaritans.org/ Tel: 116 123 or Mind if you wanted to see what local mental health support was in your area https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helplines/ Tel: 0300 123 3393.

I know you have also previously mentioned seeking support from Gamblers Anonymous and having a mixed feeling around this. I would encourage you to consider seeking support from them again if it has helped in the past. Alternatively, you are more than welcome to contact us via phone 0808 8020 133, live chat, WhatsApp or Facebook and we can support you through this.

Please do continue sharing your story with us on the forum.

Kind Regards

Forum Admin

George

Firstly, well done for going 11 days! That right there is a first in over 15 years so very well done. 

I do feel you on this, I’m in the same situation myself. The thing that keeps me going is people like you and hearing everyone else’s stories. 

I know it’s probably not helped in anyway, but just know you’re not alone. 

Kate xx