Hi all,
Since facing up to what gambling had done to me back in September I've been totally off it since then. I had hid my problems from everyone and I put myself in significant debt which is still a burden on me now with monthly loan repayments taking a sizeable chunk from my wage packet each month but got found out eventually when the cash machine rejected me for £10 to get a haircut when I was out with my girlfriend. Luckily for me she's been extremely understanding and supportive through this and has helped me by keeping an eye on my bank accounts etc for any transactions. I had read the GamCare forums at the start and dipped in and out regularly along the way but taking the time to post now because over the last few weeks I've had gambling thoughts creep into my mind and starting to realise how big a part of my life it was. At the start I found it relatively easy to put to the side and get myself together but now i'm getting more and more of an urge to put a £1 or £2 bet on but also know that £1 and £2 bets are where it all started before the zero's attached themselves to the end...
Having a tough spell but trying to soldier on!
Hello calum2408.
Well done on posting this thread with concerns about gambling thoughts creeping into your mind. It's good that you are seeking advice because just leaving it and being like "it should be fine, there just thoughts" may have bad consequences in the future.
I gave up gambling back in early november so quite close to the same time frame as you. I'll be honest i've been quite lucky in terms of not having these thoughts like yourself because i know deep down i have strong blocks in place. Its great that you have a supportive partner who looks after your bank/finances. I'm unsure if you are self excluded from bookmakers/online as you have not mentioned so. If you're not then i highly suggest doing this asap. If you ban yourself then the urge of wanting to place a £1 bet will mean you will eliminate the source of where you can place that bet.
I went extreme when i self excluded from shops. I rang up the multi operator scheme and banned myself from shops all around my home, where my relatives live and even places i could drive withing 30mins. This along with other blocks meant its almost impossible to bet, meaning i never really get urges.
I think whats happening with you is that the dust is starting to settle and all the hurt and pain gambling brought you is being forgot about. You're still feeling the after effects of your addiction (debts) but as its been 6 months it doesnt seem to hurt as much if you get me. I could be wrong but i offer my advice because when i used to try giving up id always relapse because i forgot what i was angry about last time.
I'm currently on my longest spell and this time its different because i have them blocks in place and ive been on this forum teaching myself from others.
All the best mate, hope my post made sense. I hate writing on my phone haha
I echo that last message get all the blocks in place, it took me two years to realise I needed them. Now the only place I can gamble is in pubs on fruitys and I wont let that happen anymore
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Hi calum2408,
Welcome to the forum, and thanks for your post.
You seemed very aware of your gambling problem, and determined to do something about it this time. As you stated, your gambling problem has burdened you with loads of debts, and you’re still struggling with the payment.
I’m wondering if you’ve managed to put some strategies in place to help you to avoid similar situation happening to you again, as you said you’ve been feeling the urge lately.
How about contacting our free phone Helpline on: 0808 8020 133, and ask to speak to one of our advisers, and also to find other help options available to you.
We’re open 7 days in a week, and from 8.00am to midnight.
Please try and stay in touch so we can continue to support you.
Best wishes,
Beatrice
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