Hi,
I find myself in a very familiar position after a full year off any form of gambling. I have lost my savings which I intented to use to propose to my GF in October. I am also now in a position where we will be looking to move house shortly and now need to wait at least three months for a mortgage interview. Why o why did i not think of this when i was walking into the bookies or adding funds on the casino.....
Truth is,after losing that money, I now have a air of clarity or say a focused mind about most things in my life. I have created a budget to re-save the funds, used the Gamcare self exclusion service for work/home ares and also created study plan for further exams at work.
The only problem is how do I prevent lapsing? I seem to gamble when im stressed, bored or simply when GF goes away. Been to loads of counciling in the past but I just cant shake it. I feel my confidence has been wrecked and that the problemn self perpetuates more issues with the knowledge that I continue to hurt those closest to me...
Could be game over with the GF if/when she finds out/I tell her.
Will report back soon.
Thanks for your time.
James
Hi James,
Welcome to the Forum,
It sounds like you are under financial pressure but you have a clear plan of action, which is very good. If you use gambling to deal with stress and loneliness it would have a strong emotional pull that would be difficult to manage without support. How long ago did you have counselling? If it was over a year ago, it would be good to organise some more sessions. What did you learn from it that you can apply in the present moment? There is always the risk of relapsing so you need to be proactive. Self-exclusion, blocking gambling access online, asking someone to look after your money, GA meetings…these are things that are important and would help you stay clear.
Best wishes,
Forum Admin
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