Let's try

Hi

I am 42, a father of 3 young children, married and a compulsive gambler.

I don't know why I do it, I don't need the money. Until of course I start gambling, then spend all week chasing money to clear the debt.
The money worries stop me sleeping at times, I take the stress out on the wife and kids, which makes me unhappy, the unhappiness drives me to gamble as a distraction and thus the cycle continues.

I need to break this cycle

I have tried counselling which helped for a short period.

When I met my wife I stopped completely for six months.
I know that life exists without gambling, but as much as I try, I keep relapsing.

This time I have to stop for good.
Financially I am reaching breaking point, I am messing around with my families future.

I don't need to give any numbers, suffice to say I gamble at a lot and never cash out when I do win.
Gambling to me is not really about the money, although of course it hurts. I seem to be so used to losing that I am desensitised to the value of money.

I love my wife and my children.
Whilst gambling has been a huge part of my life, it is time to say goodbye.

I appreciate the comments and support given on this website, and hope that I can use gamcare as my distraction from life when required and hope that I can help others.

I enjoy writing and will keep a diary of my struggles in the hope that I am successful this time and that perhaps I can prevent some other youngsters from ending up in the same situation