Advice Needed!

Hey Wayne,

I can't answer all your questions, but I'll tell you what I've discovered.

Currently there are no apps that block gambling on iphone/smart phones. How insane? What a gap in the market if someone could create one - bucks right there. So I'd suggest doing what I've done and downgrading to a S***e phone that doesn't have internet access - a good thing anyway in my humble op, as the charges are ridiculous anyway. Get a basic phone, and the temptation goes even in our moments of weakness.

Regarding cards - the only card that blocks gambling transactions (that I know of) is American Express, because gambling online is now illegal in US and they apply it globally too). Obviously that's a credit card not debit, but may help you some? Again, short of calling up the bank and asking for a current account with NO overdraft facility, there's nothing you can do. So, keep the amount you need to pay DD's each week in your account only, so even if you give in and gamble, the financial damage will be limited. ( I had a f*** up myself last week but minimized it by making sure I only ever have a small amount in my current account which I can access) - It's easy for me because I'm operating so hand to mouth these days due to paying off old gambling / loan debts there's no real danger of losing big money anymore. But maybe think about handing your finances over to a trusted relative/significant other if you are a man of means.

I don't really know about additional support networks beyond GA, Gordon Moody and Councelling, so I'll leave that to others here with more knowledge. But CBT works for me (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) - Free on NHS, referred by your GP. It's not always ONLY about gambling issues - sometimes we gamble as a sign of lots of things in our life we haven't come to terms with, have control over or accepted that lead us to gamble as a quick fix and easy way of avoiding the anxiety/stress we're feeling. CBT really helps. (Well it helped for me, so I'm passing it on). This forum can really help too, don't underestimate it - good people, shared problems, honest intent.

The best advice in the world beyond everything is simply - JUST DON'T DO IT - it's in our hands alone whether we choose to bet or not. No magic bullet. (Easier said than done of course, or none of us would be here, but ultimately it is brutally that simple). Distract yourself, find another buzz - even a destructive one in the short term, but one that doesn't cost you money or relationships.

All the best, Molehole

Hi there,

I can suggest going into your bank and ask to speak to an advisor. If you explain you have a gambling problem they may be able to help by restricing services on your bank card.

I did this and they agreed, I could not use my bank card for any online purchases whatsoever.

You could also hand over your bank card and your ID to someone you trust for safekeeping, this way you cannot even go into your branch saying you have forgot your card and use your ID to withdraw cash.

In terms of your phone, call your network provider and request that all adult content be blocked. This way you'll be unable to visit any gambling sites through your phone. You would have to call them back in order to get it removed.

Hope this helps, but you need to be pro-active and get it done. The weight it lifts off your shoulders is greater than anything. Your urges will be less frequent just by knowing you cant access any content... Anywhere!

This will free up your mind so you can focus on more important things.

Best wishes,

Scambling

Hi Wayne - Excellent advice (as always) from Molehole and Scambling. I can only reiterate Molehole's advice about ditching the iPhone and getting a basic PAYG mobile - it makes life so much simpler! The more physical barriers you can put in place between you and gambling the better.

Best wishes,

Joanna