Hey Guys!
I'm a student and recently came clean to everyone that I had a gambling problem. The problem isn't so much that I constantly think about gambling but the fact that when I get any amount of money I instinctivley spend it all on betting websistes. I might not get anymore money for another month or so and I'll go through all that time not gambling and not thinking about it, but when the money finally comes within 30 minutes im on the websites wasting it away. I feel so stupid after it but can't seem to stop once I've started. I've known its been an issue for about 2 years now but It's started to affect my University work, my happiness, and my loved ones, so I'm now ready to make a change. I've probably spent more than half of my student loans on gambling which makes me feel extremely bad because this isn't even money that I've earned. I recently got myself a part time job and payday is coming soon, and while I feel as though I won't spend any of it on the betting sites, I'm worried that the second I get it then all of the same emotions will come again and I'll spend it all. Any tips or advice on how to handle a large income of money?
Thanks for all responses.
Hello charlesincharge
You sound determined to make a change and as you say your payday is coming soon. There are steps you can take to limit your access to online sites. There is self-exclusion from on-line gambling sites and there is also software you can use to block gambling sites from all devices. Here is a link with information on software and self exclusion http://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/yourself#.VmSnFriLQdV . There are also steps you can take with your Income. Some people also consider restricting their access to cash and cards by asking someone to look after there account/cash or cards for a time when stopping gambling.
You say that you’re worried that once you get your money ‘’all of the same emotions will come again’. You can always talk to our Gamcare advisors on the helpline 08 80 80 20 133 who are there to listen to your concerns. Helpline advisors can also give you further information on talking therapy and gambler anonymous groups and other support available that may be helpful.
Keep posting charlesincharge
Caroline
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