hi all, this is a huge step for me, I have been addicted to online slots and bingo sites for about five years. Always keep telling myself that it wasn't a problem and I could stop anytime, even had dreams about winning and told myself that it was a sign and I needed to carry on playing, sounds stupid I know. The times that my husband has found out and I've promised that I've stopped but then I start again. I'm not using this as an excuse for gambling but I suffer from severe bouts of depression and anxiety and find when I'm gambling my brain switches off for a time but then when I'm losing it just makes it worse, I have even backed away from family and friends and I'm always on edge when the husband is on the Internet in case he checks my bank account. I can't carry on like this and I can't afford to play anyway, I feel very trapped in a continuous vicious circle so I am hoping with your help I can break it.
Hello stumpy1972
Welcome to the forum.
Well done for taking the step to post with such honesty. I understand that it isn't easy in your situation.
You're not alone. Having dreams about gambling is very common - probably inevitable - people here will understand. I have done it many times myself; I even overheard a conversation once about a film which happened to have a themed slot game. I took that as a sign. Not that it mattered: I overheard the conversation on my way to the bookies! Just my mind trying to justify gambling I suppose.
Severe bouts of depression and anxiety might not be an excuse but are certainly a cause of gambling and very closely linked. Try not to be too hard on yourself.
Installing blocking software and self-excluding would be more positive steps you might want to consider today.
With the combination of severe depression, anxiety and a gambling addiction I would suggest going to see your doctor. There is help available but it would be best to speak to your doctor first who will be able to go through the best options and find a treatment tailored to your needs.
You might also find speaking to a GamCare adviser useful and reading the recovery diaries of people in a similar situation.
Break that circle and rebuild your life.
Today you have taken the important first step.
It might not be easy at times; but it can be done.
Glint
Thank you for your comments I am under the doctors and also seeing a psychiatrist so hopefully that will help. I know that I can't keep coming up with excuses and I need to quit for myself first and not because I'm scared of other people being angry but joining here is my first step I have also self excluded from the sites. So 1 day gambling free and counting x
Keep it up stumpy.. It's so hard but we can get though it together.. I've been addicted to fobt roulette for 5 years lost well over 150k in that time and in just sick of it.. Winning money then gambling it again.. Like you im on day one of no gambling and I've also chose to kick the weed as well. Both costing me silly amounts of money. Good luck with your journey
Hi, I am completely new to this site and I am not sure what posting on here will achieve but I guess I don't know what to do. I am 28 and have had problems with gambling since I was 18. It feels like it has completely broken me. I have lost relationships, friends and damaged other relationships family and obviously had and have countless money issues. I have tried to give up time and time again to no avail. It has consumed me. I had my last bet this morning which is embarrassing but I want more than anything to never have the desire to bet again. There is a GA meeting locally for me tonight and I don't know whether to go. I am a bit ashamed to be honest. Thanks. Ben
Hi Ben like you I'm also new to this forum and also thought how is it going to help me but just knowing I'm not the only one struggling with a gambling addiction has helped. I also know that the temptation won't go away overnight and we need support from others so good luck to you with the gambling stay strong and keep trying as you only fail when you stop trying
Hi Richard thank you for your comment and I wish you luck in your own struggles it's hard to admit that we have a problem but it's good to know others are facing similar situations hope you had a good gambling free day and keep up the good work and let me know how you are getting on
Hey @stumpy how you getting on? Today was very good for me I had access to cash and didn't go to the bookies, had a mini relaps on the weed will I managed to scrap a one paper out my grinder but haven't bought anything, my councilor is going to contact me tomorrow to arrange a session for the gambling and on the weekend I plan to go to every bookies on my usual routes to self exclud with my partner. Did you gamble today?
Hi Richard glad you had a good day I too have been good today no gambling I've decided to start cooking again as I enjoy that and I've taken up colouring lol got myself some adult colouring books so instead of taking my laptop everywhere I've swopped it for my books and sharpies lol I'm no Leonardo de Vinci more of a Picasso but I find it relaxing x good luck to you and keep me updated
Hi stumpy1972 and welcome. I just wanted to wish you good luck on this long journey. I too am addicted to slots but casino slots. I found starting a diary has really helped me, maybe you could try it? Feel free to have a read of mine if you wish. Stay strong and please keep posting. Star xx
Well done for making it through your first of many days. Try to stay positive and keep busy. It helps.
Hey stumpy I'm glad you have started cooking again .. Keeping busy is the key I feel.. Im on my seconed day weed and gamble free I think I'm actually finding the no weed harder than the gambling. But I will continue to try my best to stay on track and I hope you do to mate.
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