Hi everyone,
I’m very new to this but id like to tell you all my story. I’m 25 and ive been gambling since now I was probably 18, over the years my gambling routine and addiction has got worse. I knew I was ruining my life, relationship and hurting my family in the process but couldn’t stop my urges. I refused help and was in complete denial. I haven’t gambled now for probably 3 months And I don’t intend to at all many times I wanted to stop and said I would but could never stick to it. I think that since lockdown happened it completely changed my mind set. I lost my girlfriend, my job and ive had a lot of time to think about everything. I feel like I am fully out of the horrible mindset of gambling And I truly feel like this is the first time in probably 7 years I have a clear mind set. I’ve saved money, I’m very nearly debt free . I wish I would of came to the realisation of what my gambling was doing to not only my life but my girlfriends and families life earlier, but I was ashamed and embarrassed. I’m a professional boxer and for some silly reason I saw it as a weakness. I hope you can shed some light on some help for the guilt I’m feeling now ?
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Hello Colej10
I am glad you have posted about your experiences here, it is great that you have both stopped gambling and realised the negative effects it was having on you and your loved ones. Guilt is a common emotion for many people who have stopped gambling, however please understand that many people find that their gambling has got completely out of control and that they aren't able to easily stop. This isn't their choice, it's because gambling has got a hold of them and therefore they are behaving compulsively and often in ways they wouldn't have, prior to gambling.
What's important is that you have realised and accepted that you have a gambling problem, and are now actively addressing it.
Please do keep posting on here, and if you haven't already, do call our HelpLine 0808 8020 133, to check that you know about all the practical blocks and also to see if you may like some free one to one phone treatment/ support.
Wishing you all the best with your recovery.
Josie
Forum Admin
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