Hi I would like to introduce myself. I haven't been a big gambler until recently. Having racked up debt Ā£12k (not gambling debt) I decided to try my luck and played online slots. I kept winning and using that to treat my children now I win and I play it back š even worse used money I don't have to try win money to have more money to last til next payday and end up worse off. Today I've decided to get my debts in order and looking for a debt management plan as I took the money I will pay it ALL back but at more affordable payments. But with searching I realised my debts are 1/5th gambling which I am ashamed off and decided to also get help on that while I am at it. Hope I can get some great advice thank you Becky
Hi Becky,
Thanks for your post, and welcome to the forum. It sounds like gambling is starting to cause a lot of stress for you, so I'm glad you're beginning to take steps to improve things. If you're gambling online, have you thought about possibly downloading any blocking software? Programs like Gamblock or Betfilter would prevent any gambling sites from opening on your computer, and they're a good way to protect yourself online. Lots of gamblers find them to be really helpful.
You could also think about getting individual counselling, if you wanted to get more face to face support while you're trying to change, and it could also help you work on any underlying reasons for your gambling and help you with ways to manage your urges more effectively. Counselling is generally what tends to help people the most when they're trying to quit gambling, and we have partner agencies in many parts of the country that provide that at no cost; we could look up what's near you if you get in touch.
I'm glad you're thinking about a debt management plan, and that could really help you get things back in order. Step Change is an organization that we refer to quite a bit; here's a link to their site if you'd like to speak to them: http://www.stepchange.org/
And if you'd like to speak to us about any of this, feel free to give us a call on either the Helpline (0808 8020 133) or the Netline from 8am to midnight every day. We'd be happy to chat with you and give you a bit of support.
Hope this helps,
Travis
hi i'm new on here and would like to get some help with my problem. i have been gambling more and more often recently to the point of spending all my wages on the betting machines in the bookies. i had managed to save about £1000 pounds also recently but have also ended using that money as well. it's getting to the point where it is affecting my relationship with my girlfriend who i love more than anything in the world. i need to stop this but i'm finding it harder and harder to just walk passed a bookies and always end up going inside. if anyone can please give information and/ or help i would be forever greatful. Paul
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