Hello, I’m new here. A mum to a 24 year old son whose online gambling addiction is out of control. He’s been gambling since starting in Covid lockdown - recently hit rock bottom and began taking antidepressants after we found a suicide note. His long term relationship with his GF has broken down. Things we have tried;
- self exclusion (but he just finds new sites)Â
- debt payment plan for approx 40k but he’s just spending his wagesÂ
- GP - very unhelpful other than to provide SSRIs (which he has now stopped taking since 3 weeks ago)Â
- he’s currently under southern gambling services and receiving weekly CBT. But it’s not helpingÂ
- he tried GA but said it didn’t help?!Â
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last night he went AWOL which led to the police having to search for him. He was found and brought home some hours later - he won’t talk or come out of his room.Â
he spends his wages as soon as he gets paid, I lend him money for petrol and feed him and he pays me back when he gets paid then the cycle continues. I know I have to stop doing this.Â
he lives at home with myself, husband and and 11 year old. This is taking a toll on us all. I just don’t know what else to do to help him. I’ll looking for advice and guidance before I too am at breaking point. Thank you
Hello M50,
Thank you for sharing your story here on the GamCare forum.
It is good that your son has seen his GP, and that he is receiving weekly CBT with the Southern Gambling Service. It sounds like you are saying that your son is not yet feeling much better; it is positive that he is using some regular professional support, so that his wellbeing is monitored and supported.
It sounds like you might all be feeling under pressure with recent events, so please remember you can call us at any time for immediate emotional support on our 24 hour freephone 0808 8020 133. If your son does not feel comfortable talking on a helpline, he might prefer to text us on our Live Chat or WhatsApp.Â
Here are a couple resources you might like to look at:
NHS website page listing various resources for getting help for suicidal thoughts:
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/help-for-suicidal-thoughts/
BeGambleAware website page for affected others:
https://www.begambleaware.org/looking-out-for-you
Take care,
Adam.
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