I could probably write page after page about all my near misses. How this striker missing a 1-on-1 cost me, a fluffed penalty, a clear onside goal being ruled out, right down to the fact that enough crosses weren't put out for corners when I needed it. My bad luck stories just keep piling up. But I kept telling myself I can Buck the trend, it's just a patch, just bad luck, hell that guy missed on purpose because he plays for my teams rivals and it's another way to get at me.
I've probably threw out every weak excuse i could think of and told myself it will be ok I will take a break and recharge then next time I will get it right. But I've realised it never does. I've been gambling close on 12 years now and only now I've realised I can't take a break I need to stop it for good.
By posting this I hope to be able to chart my progress as I start a long process of stoping gambling all together. This is day 1 and I hope I can have the strength of will to see it through
Hello igor3quid
Welcome to the forum.
Football betting is a tough one. If you are an avid follower of football the companies sponsor shirts, leagues, cups, advertise on boards around the grounds and every media-outlet available.
Just try to remember that there's a reason for it!
Barriers will be important. Blocking software, self-exclusion and handing over finances are a good start. These should allow you to stop and take stock of your situation without causing anymore financial hardship.
It would be a really good idea to get some barriers up in place before the start of the new season. After nearly 12 years it'll be difficult to stop. You will be tempted to start again when the new season starts - make it difficult to start (I'm presuming football betting is your main problem, apologies if that's not the case).
With barriers in place it might be beneficial to look at the reasons why you gamble. GamCare offer free counselling to help with this.
You're never alone here. You might find it better to be in the 'recovery diaries' part of the forum. You will receive the most support there. A quick request to GamCare to move your thread over is all it will take.
There's a chatroom here, times vary - a timetable is available. If you find that a bit daunting (I did) let me know when you visit the room and I will do my very best to make sure I'm there. You will be sure of a hearty welcome - usually a good bunch of regulars in the room most days.
Make the most of the help available, keep busy, find what works and stick at it. This isn't easy.
Look forward to following your progress.
Best wishes
Glint
We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also contact us for free on 0808 80 20 133. If you would like to find out more about the service before you start, including information on confidentiality, please click below. Call recordings and chat transcripts are saved for 28 days for quality assurance.
