I am 37 now and have been gambling since I was 16 maybe. I am surprised I am actually still alive as the thought's I had while being depressed over losing all my money many, many and many times I have thought why am I here. I really need some support. I can't really talk about it with anyone close to me as it is something that is seen as disgusting I suppose. Family members belittle me over it but don't support. I just need someone to talk to sometimes. Any help would be appreciated.
Hi Oxford Bloke,
Well done for reaching out for help. I'm sorry that you feel unsupported and belittled by family in regard to gambling. It is excedingly hard to have to admit to people we know that we have problems with gambling and our biggest critic will unfortunately always be ourselves so to feel isolated with all of this is a burden that can only lead to more negativity. It's a really positive step that you have chosen to not be silent but instead come here to initiate help Good on you, and I really mean that.
If you are looking for some counselling support to help with tackling things you could always start with the Gamcare online counselling or phone support, both are free. The info is under the links at the top of the page.
For more 'face to face' support you could start by visiting your G.P and mentioning your depression and gambling. They may be able to refer you to a counsellor local to you.
If admitting things to your G.P seems too daunting then how about Gamblers Anonymous? They run a session in Oxford (I have taken the following info from their website)
Oxford Tuesday
South Oxford Community Centre, Lake
Street, Oxford, OX1 4RP
Tuesday 19:30 to 21:00 (19:00 for newcomers - Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday)| Last meeting every month is an open meeting.
If none of these options appeal to you then do please keep posting and talking to other gamblers in recovery through these forums. We are all here to support eachother and nobody has to feel completely isolated and alone.
Cheers
Ian.
Hi Oxford Bloke, sorry to hear how low you are feeling.
I can relate to those feelings too, I have lost thousands of pounds over the last 2 years and have had to take out loans to try and stay afloat financially but paying back the loans and credit card interest is a huge struggle. I hate myself most of the time for getting in to this mess and then when I am feeling low the urge to gamble is stronger. Vicious circle.
I understand not wanting to talk to family/.friends about your gambling. Mine is a huge secret that I haven't talked about with anyone, I don't think my family would understand and I can't face telling them. Posting on here helps.
Take care and good luck trying to stay gamble free x
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