Hello everyone
This is the first time I have used the site or even told my story and situation in detail. I have read a few posts on here already and hearing other stories and knowing your not the only one in a difficult situation does make you feel slightly better.
Anyway I want to share my story. This is the first time so hopefully getting things off my chest might help.
I have gambled for just over 10 years now. I've gambled on pretty much everything you can bet on. Casino games, fruit machines, football, rugby, cricket, ice hockey and horse racing.
To begin with my habit wasn't that bad, weekend betting with small stakes and only what I could afford. It's only this last 2 years it's got out of control. Not sure why this is or if there is an underlying reason but because of gambling I'm roughly 15K in debt. Over drafts, credit cards etc. And I'm struggling to pay it and keep up with payments.
ive had family try and support me financially to try and get me back on my feet but I've gone and messed up again and gone back to square one. This is the thing that really gets to me. THE SILENT GUILT and feeling of betrayal of a loved one. The debt I can cope with (just about) but not the guilt. Makes you feel very ashamed and disappointed with yourself.
I honestly believe if the FOBT's never existed I wouldn't be in as bad a situation as what iam now. They are so easy to win on (which makes you come back) but also so easy to lose.
This is the first step I've taken in trying to better my situation and I'm going to get some counselling on board which will hopefully help.
The main thing for me is making my family proud and eventually pull myself out of this hole. I know I can do it.
Thanks for letting me share
Hello Spartan300
Welcome and thank you for sharing your story on the forum.
I am glad that you were able to come to the point where you felt ready and wanted to change your situation. You made a lot of clear statements in your post, describing the silent guilt, betrayal and increasing debts. You also described shame and disappointment in yourself which are common feelings associated with problem gambling. These feelings can be challenged and overcome so again I would like to encourage you to keep going.
Have you considered using the online recovery diary section. Take a look and see what you think it may help. http://www.gamcare.org.uk/forums/recovery-diaries
I have also made a link for counselling and debt agencies to help
http://www.gamcare.org.uk/support-and-counselling/free-counselling
http://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-advice/what-can-you-do/finance-and-debt-management#.VCA56PldXww
And finally you can also speak with one of our trained Advisers free on 0808 8020 133
Kind regards
Cade
Forum admin
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