Okay so little backstory, I’m 18 and I turned 18 in February this year (2024) since then I’ve gambled here and there, except abt a month in I lost about 1000 pound on dogs, I stopped for a month or two then restarted, but instead I did arbitrage which I’m sure most are familiar with, I ended up gaining.
i left some for me to get a car and insurance (since the cost of that is RIDICULOUS) anyway, yesterday I didn’t go on my morning run and stayed in as a result. I did an arbitrage but couldn’t cover the loss as it was a smaller game and I was limited so I ended up essentially putting on 120 pound to win 300 pound when I don’t gamble like that anymore, the most I do is 5/10 pound here and there which I can control, however, the bet lost meaning I was down, and then I saw dogs were on. I literally said out loud that I wouldn’t chase the loss.. I did and ended up losing about 1800 in the course of abt 20 mins. 1000 on a dog?! I’m in need of a car + insurance which is minimum 3000 for the cheapest car and insurance which I now can't afford. I feel gutted
I was wondering if anyone else had a problem with randomly binging was able to bring their addiction under control whilst still gaining from them, sorry for the long message, thanks
Hello spen10h,
Welcome to our Forum and well done on making your first post.
It sounds like you've been around gambling for a relatively short space of time but you've got the insight to recognise that it's already causing you harm. It also sounds like you're trying to approach things rather strategically whilst also battling with strong urges that can lead to more harmful behaviours within gambling. Chasing losses is a prime example and, despite you telling yourself that's not what you wanted to happen, it's where you have found yourself at.
I'm wondering if you feel your urges to gamble are wanting you to keep pursuing that idea that you can gain from your betting without falling victim to the destructive gambling traits that we see so often. It's a fine road to cross as you will still be exposed to the same triggers and urges that you're currently experiencing, as well as potentially being led into a cycle of believing you are able to gamble in a way that rewards you financially without exhibiting impulse gambling behaviours. This can lead to months or even years of hurt and despair as we unfortunately see so often. You've already had a glimpse of what could be a regular occurrence as you're currently out of reach of buying a car and insurance due to what has happened.
We operate a helpline which is staffed 24/7 and can be accessed via Live Chat, WhatsApp or by calling 0808 8020 133. If you haven't already, feel free to reach out at any time if you'd like to explore your feelings around your gambling further. We have a good range of support available should you decide that gambling is an activity you no longer want to participate in.
Thank you,
Steven, Forum Admin.
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