I just checked and I’ve been on this site since 2014 – I guess that was when I first realised that I had a gambling problem and needed to quit. I wish that I could have quit when I first joined the site. It was when my parents found out that I joined the site, and I wanted to give up for them.  But I’m not sure at the time that I wanted to give up for myself.
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After another 8 years of gambling, and being pretty much permanently in debt, and having no money at the end of each month, I now feel that I’m ready to quit for myself. I have started to track the number of days gamble-free again.
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I moved in with my girlfriend a couple of years ago, and I have started to deal with my addictions – I also have a problem with drinking. I managed to quit for 2 years – for me, drinking and gambling go hand in hand and I know that I wouldn’t have a chance giving u gambling if I was still drinking. I know that I need to give up for my girlfriend, and for me, and for our future.
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I do feel differently to how I have felt before in giving up gambling. In fact, I don’t really feel I have ever focused on truly giving up. I have always said the odd sports bet or lottery ticket isn’t real gambling, but I realise that I have to give up all forms of gambling. I plan on getting counselling again, and I plan on doing lots of reading, and lots of running to fill my time. This may be the hardest thing I have ever done but I can’t carry on this way. I will keep close to gamcare in the next few weeks. Wishing everyone luck on their journey.
Hi @andyrr
Thank you for sharing your post and for being so honest about how you are feeling.
It sounds like reflection has been powerful for you recently highlighting the co-dependency within your alcohol and gambling addictions an how the odd sports bet or lottery ticket isn't aiding your recovery. All of which combined with you feelings around your relationship have strengthened your resolve to build a recovery from addiction - this is a strong foundation to build a recovery.Â
You are absolutely right in thinking about focusing your mind on other things it is so essential to recovery. As a suggestion within a diary on the forum maybe consider tracking and sharing how far you run each week and the books your reading with mini reviews.Â
If you haven’t already spoken with our Advisers, I would encourage you to do so. We can discuss with you the options open to you and ensure that you have everything that you need to help you reach your goals and aid your recovery. You can use the netline or call the helpline on 0808 8020 133, we are here 24/7.
Keep posting and sharing @andyrr
HelenÂ
Forum Admin
Best of luck Andy admitting you want to stop is the first step. Filling your time with more productive hobbies is also a huge help I'm finding.
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Hi
By being dedicated to a healthy recovery program you stop working for nothing.
My addictions and obsessions just indicated how emotionally vulnerable I was.
The recovery program helps us become much healthier people.
I did not enjoy living in fear.
I did not enjoy lying and being lonely.
Love and peace to everyone
Dave L
AKA Dave of Beckenham UK
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