Hello everyone, I just signed up today. I really need to kick this habit as it is destroying my life.
I was introduced to matched betting late last year it was all going well until I started doing the casino offers. I done an offer that involved online blackjack I won a bit of money but then I put more money in after completing the offer. I lost a lot that night in total and had my account closed down fast forward to now I have spent over £xxxx playing online blackjack. I honestly cannot believe the state of my life.
I am so embarrassed and ashamed to say that I spent £xxxx of money that was not mine. I have completely ruined what was once a strong relationship. I took out a loan which has defaulted and also have a huge credit card debt. I sold items and gambled the money I got for them. Got a car scrapped and gambled the money from that. Bought a faulty car for £850 spent £250 to repair it to find it had a major problem with the engine that wasn't worth fixing, sold for £310 for scrap and gambled the money from that. Was working for 3 months. I've lost every bit of money I've had during this time to gambling only making small contributions to my debt. I have no car now. I feel so low thinking about it. My balance currently is £0.00, I am behind on bills and I have no money for food.
I really don't know what to do anymore. I can't believe I am in this position. It's so hard to accept that I have lost all this money and so much more. I find it hard to even think nowadays, my uni work has suffered as I haven't been able to focus properly.
On top of that I'm living at home and it's sometimes unbearable living here. I feel like I can't make it too obvious that I've gambled all my money away. I just want this all to stop. I can't go through this again. My bank balance is literally £0.00.
You are doing something.
You just wrote down clean and simple what is going on. That is a start to change. I would strongly encourage you to print this 1st story out and keep it in your pocket. Bring it out when you need to be reminded. I am overweight atm and on a diet. I have to stop and look at myself in the mirror every day. I also need to get weighed in to remind myself about where I am. You need to do the same. Remind yourself where you are.
90% of addicts kick the habit by themselves 90 and 10% struggle. That means you may need to start by banning yourselves from bookies and getting gamban online. If so use the tools. That will bring your gambling down because it makes it harder. Go and talk to counselors here. They will teach you a new way to look at your situation. sometimes when you are stuck in the maze of your own mind. You simply can not see the way forward. This is when you need to have faith that we are all here for different reasons. One of the biggest is to live and learn life. You are getting taught tough lessons but you are also only just repeating your actions of gambling. And if you repeat the same things you will get more of the same. Start changing your routines. Do different things than you are used to. If it is only taking a simple walk down a different road in a different area, start there. Many new routines will see many new results. Be kind and not too hard on yourself. Decide to get better and you will. A famous Roman emperor once said you are what you think. Start thinking differently and see what you will become.
All will be well
C
Hello,
I signed up yesterday too!
It is going to be a long and hard journey but we can both do this!
I hope you are okay!
Sammie xoxo
Hello @ilovecookies91,
Welcome to the GamCare Forum and for sharing your post.
I am sorry you are going through a really tough time at the moment, you are not alone in the way gambling can occupy daily lives for people, it is not easy dealing with problem gambling. Gambling is cunning, powerful, and baffling and without support can sometimes be too much. There is plenty of support available to you and you have made a really positive step today by posting your story and reaching out.
It is really positive that you have highlighted your own concerns around your gambling. Have you thought about installing some self-exclusion and blocking software to add some protection to your recovery, ensuring things are in place if you experience an urge to gamble in the future.
It sounds like gambling is having a big impact on your mental health and university life, which is completely understandable. I would strongly encourage you to make an appointment with your GP regarding the impact gambling is having on you and any other feelings you may be experiencing.
Could I also give the details for some organisations that can offer some free debt advice and may be able to talk through some support surrounding your financial situation.
National Debtline – 0808 808 4000, www.nationaldebtline.org
StepChange – 0800 138 1111, www.stepchange.org
It sounds like gambling has become an overwhelming feature in your life, it is all consuming. Experiencing the ups and downs, chasing losses, and that sick feeling, is not uncommon so you are not alone. This is why it is crucial that you start making some changes in your routine and lifestyle because that’s what recovery ultimately is – a complete lifestyle change.
Have you thought about any hobbies or interests that you could do to take the focus away from the gambling. This would add some fulfilment and enjoyment into your recovery. Making some changes in your routine and lifestyle can have a real positive impact on your recovery and wellbeing.
The forum is a great place for peer support and as you will have seen there is lots of advice, support and encouragement to help you with your journey.
Please feel free to contact the GamCare Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or Netline to explore the additional support available to you. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you would like to talk to one of the GamCare HelpLine advisers.
Wishing you all the very best and keep sharing,
Regards
Dan
Forum Admin
You've taken the hardest step...STOPPING.
We can't change what is in the past, but we can make a difference to our future.
On my own journey (111 days and counting) I have learnt that it is about rebuilding my relationship with money, so in the early days it can feel very empty and challenging knowing what I had lost and how soul destroying it felt to see £0.00 in my balance too. However everyday on that I chose not to gamble effectively meant I was saving and building my money, even if I was paying off loans and people etc.
I also chose to get GamCare counselling support this time because I have relapsed in previous years - and it has made a big difference in learning about myself.
Everyone has their own journeys though, and so don't feel pressured to use others techniques either.
One day at a time, we are all here rooting for you!
Our story paths seem very alike, I’ve earnt, stole, sold and lossed over a period of 7 years..it’s took me to be rock bottom and have nothing to realise.
when I mean nothing I mean car gone, £0.00, s**t credit, loans & credit card bills then back in the spare bedroom however I have good health, a paid job and hope along with determination..my advice would be forget the losses, set a goal, start the counselling with Gamcare, get the blocks in place.
take each day as it comes but have in the back of your mind that the long term goal is to be back enjoying yourself and living a happy life.
am only 7 days in myself had 2 sessions and I feel great
good luck
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