Evening all
i have joined this site as I am a gambler and am looking for advice. I have gambled since the age of 18 and am 37 now, although it started small and often, it increased to short large binges which have effected my life and my families. It came to a head a couple of years ago when my wife found out and I said I would stop. As we all know this was not as easy as it sounds and I relapsed shortly after blowing large sums in a small window. She once again found out and threatened to leave me. I begged her to stay and promised that I would never do it again, I even went to a support group to help, which only led me to believe I didn't have a problem as I was surrounded by people with huge debts. I convinced her that I was cured and was fine, which I felt I was and I was doing well, blocked from all sites and not tempted until a mate who did not know my circumstances suggested with throw some money in and bet on the football! I couldn't resist and I started again, this time not vast sums of money but I was still gambling. Of course my wife found out and it broke my heart watching her breakdown, thinking I had ruined the only amazing thing in my life. If I could bottle the way I felt then and open it whenever I felt the need to gamble I would never gamble again, but it fades, so I need HELP as I don't want to do this anymore or hurt her again.
i haven't gambled for a couple of weeks, before she found out and have not had the urge or inclination. I blocked myself from gambling sites a couple of years ago and do not use them but I need to just say no when the opportunity presents itself. I have read some of the forums and think a journal might help or forums. I consider myself lucky that my wife is trying to understand and help and I have not jeopardised our financial status, the amount is not the issue it is the deceit which is destroying my relationship. Thanks in advance for any advice
Hi I'm wife of cg, I suggest you hand your finances over to your wife. That shows her you mean it. That takes some temptation away from you. Compulsive gambling is a progressive illness(I think) and it just gets worse. You say money isn't the issue the lying is. Eventually the money is your issue and the being lied to is hers. Don't forget your wife needs help and support too. Good luck!
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