I really do not know where to start. My lovely, caring 36yr old son has turned into a monster. He had a troubled childhood due to an illness that affected his confidence (it was a visible thing). He feels it shaped his future and he couldn't get on and progress with life because of it. He turned to gambling years ago and kept it secret. It is out in the open and it is destroying our relationship. He smashes things if he loses and then goes into a deep depression and says he wants to jump off a cliff etc. I am a single parent and we have no contact with his violent Dad. I turn weak and for a bit of peace give him money. Yes I know I shouldn't. It has been thousands and thousands over the years. I just cannot take this anymore.
Dear Pat,
Thank you for posting on our forum, Clearly you care a lot about your son but understandably you are not coping with his gambling and associated behaviours. This situation has been going on a long time and it sounds as though you might be dealing with this on your own. In addition to this forum we are able to offer you some regular support so please make use of our helpline 24/7 where you can talk to an adviser. We also have a money guidance service to help you protect your finances, there is some information here https://www.gamcare.org.uk/self-help/managing-your-money/.
Your son is struggling with his gambling and mental health. We speak to many people who feel suicidal and we are here for him. He may feel very overwhelmed and isolated, we welcome him to our forum community and full range of services.
Do continue to post on our forum so you can have support, depending on where you post you may get support from other gamblers as well as other people e.g. families of gamblers.
Try to take care of yourself.
Best Wishes
Fiona
Forum Admin
I'm so sorry to hear that Pat. Maybe your son should try to get to some in person sessions and talk to others since it's gotten that bad. I'm 30 years old and just told my mum recently about my problem. I was so ashamed and now I'm hoping since she knows and so does my partner, that it will be enough to make me stop for good and focus on other things. I was feeling similar to your son, I thought about hurting myself and had dark thoughts after I lost a significant amount of money. And maybe that would have been the next step for me. Gambling is a horrible addiction and it really is an evil industry. I wish it wasn't so accessible online, it has ruined so many lives. He isn't that old and can still turn things around. Hope he manages to pull through and I hope you are okay too.
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