Hi everyone,
I am posting on here regrettably as I think I have the start of a gambling problem.
I don't bet thousands like some of the stories and posts I have read, but do bet much more than I can afford, and do try and hide it from the people that I love most.
I had never bet before I worked in the betting industry, and ever since I have enjoyed betting on horses mostly. I don't do the poker or roulette machines, but have seen them at their lethal best.
I am generally not bad at picking them but worse for me is online - it is so easy to spend a fortune in the blink of an eye. My wife thinks I spend a low amount but I have spent too much now in recent times and I have to do something about it.
Can anyone advise on how to take those first few steps on stopping and how to distract myself from it? All you seem to see everywhere is gambling adverts and from working for a bookie, I have first hand experience of seeing people go to rack and ruin because of this.
I was thinking perhaps a diary might help me.
Thanks for reading.
Hello kegs,
Welcome to the Forum. It is very positive that you have recognised the symptoms of the addiction and took this first step of sharing in this forum. Keeping a diary, under the Recovery diaries section, could be helpful and keep you on the right track. You could also receive encouraging posts from other members.
It might be a good idea to install blocking software on the devices you use to gamble and ask your wife to keep the password safe. Also, you can ask your bank to remove your online banking facility to stop you from being tempted to place a bet online in the first place. However, if you are struggling with the urge to gamble, you are welcome to contact the GamCare advisors on 0808 8020 133, which is free on the main mobile networks. Alternatively, you can use the Netline to connect:
http://secure.gamcare.org.uk/netline
Our Helpline and Netline are open from 8am until midnight, seven days a week.
Best wishes,
forumadmin
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