So today after years of gambling my parents have finally found out. I have ruined my life over the years from drink driving charges to losing my ex partner and not being able to see my son. Only when my mum said your only unhappy because you have no money i realised i should get help. I used gambling as a hide away from my problem starting with money, then home life. I now live with my parents who have tried to help me with my debts while i get back on my feet. I need advice on what to do everything is getting to much and i have no idea where to start. I need to find myself again ive lose everything!Â
Dear @lewisl199
I'm sorry to hear how hard things have been for you. Thank you for reaching out on the forum.Â
It is good to hear you are getting the support from your parents as this is important for you.Â
I encourage you to contact us on the Helpline (0808 8020 133) or access our website, www.gamcare.org.uk and click on the talk to someone tab at the bottom right hand side of the screen to talk to us over our netline (webchat) to discuss your situation and talk through options with one of our advisers. There are several strategies that we can help you put in place to start paving a way forward for you and to start getting back some control. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.Â
We look forward to hearing from you,
Take care
JohnÂ
Forum admin.
Â
Â
Â
Thank you everyone. I started today i have finished setting my debt management plan up and its in the process now. I have arranged to talk to someone about my gambling issues and have found my closets GA meeting. I have contacted my doctors with regarfs to my mental health and has arranged counselling to start over the next afew weeks.Â
Hi Lewisl199 - Wow, who said Rome wasn't built in a day!? You've come so far even in the time you have been posting - sorting a debt management plan, getting counselling via your doctor and the GA meetings. Keep that focus, though its a long road you sound like you are ready and committed to making the changes necessary.Â
I have found the GA meetings useful in talking openly in person, discussing things I've kept hidden for a long time.Â
Good luck and look forward to hearing updates on your journey.
Affected by gambling?
Looking for support?
We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also contact us for free on 0808 80 20 133. If you would like to find out more about the service before you start, including information on confidentiality, please click below. Call recordings and chat transcripts are saved for 28 days for quality assurance.