Hi everyone. This is my first time on here and hoping I can abstain form gambling and most importantly....lying about it to the people who really care.
My name is Brian. 43. I've been gambling online for the past 3 years approx. And I've been gambling with money that neither I or my family can ill afford to waste. I have an amazing wife and 4 cracking kids but when I was found out about gambling recently the despair and anger on their faces rocked me hard.
Hope this works and I can kick this ugly addiction. I am about to get counseling about it and I know it won't be easy. Just hoping that it isn't too late and I haven't lost my family over this.
Hi the main thing is it's out there now, so the recovery and relationship repair can start.
You are far from alone in your situation and will get sound advice here from both sides of the fence, the addict and those in a relationship with an addict
You've taken the first massive step in owning up and facing up to your situation and you should congratulate yourself for that as it's a big step.
Do stick around and have a good read of the site and forums.
Hi Tootless73,
Welcome to the forum, and thanks for sharing your story with us. Well done also for owning up to your gambling problem, and taking the necessary steps to do something about it.
You’ve actually come to the right place for help and support for your gambling problem; Gamcare is ready to help and support you every step of the way to overcome your gambling problem. However, it’s important that you follow these advice, so you’d be able to achieve your aim, ok?
I’m glad you’ve decided to go for some counselling support to help with your recovery, and I hope all goes well for you.
Maybe you’d like to check on our recommended internet blocking software, which will stop you from accessing gambling sites (in case you haven’t already), and help you avoid spending money that you can’t afford by stopping you in your tracks.
The software are:- Gamblock, Betfilter, Net Nanny and Gamban. Please research on them first, and then you can choose to install the most suitable one to your needs.
It’s also advisable to keep yourself busy with some activities or hobbies to distract you from your online gambling. Hobbies that you go for should be something that you’d like to do for a long time, and also find it enjoyable, as it’s important not to give yourself the chance to get bored.
You can also contact our free phone Helpline on: 0808 8020 133, and speak to one of advisers in case you have any questions regarding your gambling problem or, just to chat about how you’re getting on with your recovery. Our lines are open everyday from 8.00am to midnight.
Meanwhile, keep reading from our Chatroom/ Forum for more strategies on stopping gambling, and please do post as often as you can.
Best wishes,
Beatrice
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.
