Single mum of additional needs child turned addict

Hi Singlemum81

well done for joining and welcome to the family!

yes, I can relate. I hit rock bottom earlier this summer. I felt so low I can’t even put it into words the darkness and distress I was in. I’ve managed to slowly rebuild my life but the damage I’ve caused will take time to repair.

I urge you to talk to professional organisations to get help with finances and mental support. I left it far too long as I believed I could win it all back! ?

c

Posted by: Singlemum81

Well, I've bitten the bullet and signed up. Single mum of 3 including a child with complex additional needs. Little support, struggling to keep the balls in the air... 

... Then I discovered online slots. They gave me something to do to pass my lonely evenings, and the buzz came when I won money. But slowly, I gambled more and more on several apps and sites. 

Now I'm at rock bottom, emotionally and financially, and don't know what to do anymore. 

I'm tired, lonely and have had enough of my stressful life. I'm a positive person, I know this is all for a reason, but right now, I can't see a way out and I hate the pit I'm in.

Can anyone relate? 

I completely relate, its a false escape from your current reality. I'm dealing with the same issue. I've hit the box sets instead and banned myself from any online play last year. It means I have to physically go out to gamble which makes the urges more manageable. 

I too have a child with additional needs,  initially it played a part in my addiction to gambling because I saw it as an escape, latterly though I realised that my child was my reason for not gambling and that she was much more important than a quick fix at some dodgy online casino.

Your child is your key to escape the trap you briefly fell into, don't beat yourself up because some casino took advantage of you when you were at a low point in your life.  instead use your childrens energy and love to remind yourself why your never going to become a prisoner to gambling ever again.

Dear @singlemum81, 

I am sorry to hear you are feeling like this. You are not alone, I would really encourage you to get in contact with one of our advisers on helpline (0808 802 0133) or netline, we are available for 24 hours a day, seven days week, so we can  offer you some further support. 

You have taken a really positive step by reaching out to us on the forum to share your experience., 

Look forward to hearing from you

Take care 

Forum Admin