Hi All
Having blown the vast majority of my expendable income this month on sportsbetting (again) I have made the move to speak with Gamcare, refer myself to the NHS gambling clinic and start a diary on here. I have closed all online accounts and self excluded myself from the local shops.
I have no real interest in machines or casinos, but have been chasing losses after a few near misses and this is what has done that damage.
I have been gambling since I was 18. I am 29 now and it has become a lot heavier in the past 12-18 months and it needs to stop.
The change starts now.
Wish me luck, and any advice is always appreciated.
Hi werder_loyal,
Welcome to the Forum, and well done for your post.
It seems like you’re very aware of your gambling problem, and ready to do what it takes to overcome it.
All the moves you’ve taken so far are positives, and in the right direction too.
It’s also good that you got in touch with us for advice and support, and now using the forum to your benefit.
Perhaps you’ve already read about more inspiring stories from the postings there, especially, from people you can identify with.
I advise that you keep reading for strength, courage, for you to know that you’re not alone in this, and for more strategies to help you overcome your problematic gambling.
Also, keeping a diary here will help you to stay focused, and remind you of what you’re achieving with your spare time when you’re not gambling.
I do agree with you that “the change starts now”.
We can refer you to 12 sessions of free counselling if you think that would help you to stop gambling. Pls. contact our free phone Helpline on: 0808 8020 133, in case you’d like to be referred for counselling.
Our lines are open everyday from 8.00am to midnight, so there’s plenty of time to get in touch with us when you feel the need for help and support.
In addition, you can register on our website and take part in the live chat which is held everyday from 8.00pm to 9.00pm
I wish you all the best in your recovery. Also, thanks again for your post, and pls. keep posting.
Kind regards,
Beatrice
Hi Beatrice
Thank you for the detailed response.
I have set my diary up and taken a lot of heart from the success stories aspect of the forum. I also intend to check out the chatrooms when I have a moment as well.
There is a bit of a waiting list for the NHS clinic, so I'll give the helpline a call to see what counselling options there are nearby.
Thanks for your support 🙂
We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also contact us for free on 0808 80 20 133. If you would like to find out more about the service before you start, including information on confidentiality, please click below. Call recordings and chat transcripts are saved for 28 days for quality assurance.
