Posted by sammyace Tue 06 May 2014 17:15:43
(Moved from 'Research Projects' section).
My name is Sam and I have been a compulsive gambler for over 17 years since my 18th birthday really how weird.
I started with slot machines when I first went to pubs and progressed onto bookies, casinos and then online gambling.
On my recent 35th birthday I said enough is enough and rather than list my triggers as to why I gamble I now have in place hurdles I have to get over to do it again.
The usual blocking software, giving your partner cards, self excluding etc etc worked up until a point and actually helped stop me losing money for periods of 3 and 4 months.
Now I am really convinced I will stop for good as I am visiting gamcare once a week which has also worked before but more improtantly I have in my head what I should do instead.
This could be go for a walk, hand over all money in wallet and cards to girlfriend, go to gym or play a sport, re-read books or why I should stop gambling and finally post on forums like this.
I have had impulses to gamble a few times over the past month since my 35th birthday and I am almost certain that having just one reason not to gamble will not be enough, therefore what works for me is creating a list of hurdles to overcome.
Thanks for reading Sam
Hello sammyace,
Welcome to the forum.
Thanks for sharing what is working for you in your recovery; you’ve put blocks in place, you’re using support, and you’ve got other activities to do instead of gambling. Sounds like a helpful combination of arrangements to support your recovery, well done on doing all of these things, and for sharing on the forum.
Take care,
Adam.
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