I've found over the last two years that commitment on an hourly, daily basis is a fundamental part of addressing this horrible issue.
Im no expert - but I think I know quite a bit about myself since 730 days ago.
My achievement is not at all a boast, anniversary or "well done me" but I used to bet on more or less every single horse race in EVERY meeting. I never thought I could stop because I was so "involved" as a distraction from many other issues.
I chose to stop and have maintained that decision with my own interpretation of "one day at a time".
I've been completely honest in my personal life despite thinking my wife would leave me; I've told (some) friends and family and people may not understand the intricicies of this problem but they have been damned supportive because they care about me.
I've also taken responsibility for the gambling debts through a debt management plan.
One day is all that counts despite shell shock. Build on it - go to meetings if you feel it suits you. Use the GamCare counselling servive, start a recovery diary, be as honest as you can in your personal life and use the chat room if it ever returns! 🙂
Best wishes to anyone who wants a better life and believe me your life WILL be better over time, Phil (a ODAAT advocate)
Are u saying always make urselfes busy always. Cause my weakest moments are when I'm on my and have time to kill. Well done you
Well done Phil (I know you weren't self-congratulating but that doesn't mean we can't!).
You're right about recovery, everyone is different (although most of us are pretty similar) and you have to try all the options to determine what will work for you. Personally GA wasn't for me but so many people have said how much it helped that there's definitely something in it.
Well done on two years (5 months myself) and thanks for continuing to post, it's important that experience and advice is shared as this may be the first port of call for those reaching out for help.
All the best
(a different) Phil
Thanks for the comments.
I still regard myself as a newcomer in many experiences as I'm learning more about myself all the time.
I've spent the last two years also addressing long-term dependency on tranquillisers and believe me that is not something I would wish on my worst enemy.
All the best, Phil.
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