Hi all,
I joined here about a year ago, but have since forgotten my password. So here I am again.
I went about 2 months without old el gamblo, and I've been back on the wagon (so to speak) for about 6 months now. Thinking back on those 2 months of abstinence, and the person I became in that short period, really sheds a light on just how encompassing gambling can be. I've been miserable for weeks, distracted at work, an awful boyfriend.
I started with the odd sports bet on payday. It's funny how you justify it, isn't it? "Ohhhh it's only a bit of fun, £20 won't hurt."
6 months down the line and...
"Oops, now it's 2 days since payday and I don't have any money to get public transport or eat for the rest of the month, how did that happen?" Blackjack's a b***h. As are those withdrawal reversal things they put in place. It's almost as if they want us to lose all of our money...
Anyway, I have come home today and had to break the news to my girlfriend that I am penniless until the end of next month, which went down a treat. But at least she supports me. Speaking of support, I have joined the CNWL National Problem Gambling Clinic, and am on the waiting list for CBT. Thumbs up for progress.
While I wait for that, I need an outlet. Something to keep my mind occupied. So I've come to you guys.
Whenever I get the urge, I think I'll try and write on here. Hopefully it's a temporary solution. If anyone has any other helpful tips that have prevented them in the short term, I'm all ears. I need all the help I can get.
Love to all. x
Welcome back & yay for solid steps being taken 🙂
GA is an outlet whilst you wait for the other stuff, those meetings are regular & you just rock up to them no waiting!
No money, no gamble so your gambling (Time-Money-Location, remove one & you can't gamble) triangle is currently broken which will make abstaining that bit easier @ least. 'They' do want you to lose all of your money & Mr Gamble wants you to think that 'he' is the only thing in the whole world that can fix all your woes! That £20 wouldn't hurt your average Joe but we are compulsive gamblers, we cannot win because we cannot stop...Even the 'free' bets hurt us!
Pending withdrawals sounds like online gambling to me so self exclude & get blockers on your devices (K9 is free but GamCare can point you in the direction of other paid versions I'm sure) maybe even speak to your internet provider. Would also be beneficial getting the missus to take control of your finances if she is willing!
If you're planning on sticking around may well be worth starting a recovery diary...It is a great place to come to ride out urges.
Not sure if you know, if your girlfriend needs support she could consider a GamAnon meeting plus GamCare offer a friends & family service too!
Time to stop going back - ODAAT
welcome back danny,
i can only echo the above comments. id also reccomend you have a read through other diaries on here. there are so many useful tips that may be able to help you.
look forward to following youre recovery
Ben
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