Aside from the obvious problems that come with being a CG one of the things that disgusts me is the constant media glamorisation of gambling without a thought for the people on the losing side. We are inundated with adverts pushing their free welcome bonuses, odd boosting, promises of wild riches and stories of big wins but how about something showing the effects of gambling when it goes wrong such as the relationship breakdowns, depression and anxiety or people facing financial ruin.
The alcohol, smoking and drug industries all have their anti messages but the same for gambling are virtually non existent, aside from the 'When The Fun Stops...' and 'Please Gamble Responsibly' slogans of course. The gambling firms hide behind the bright lights and £ signs and it's seen as acceptable because it can't physically damage your health in the same way that alcohol, cigarettes and drugs can right? Wrong. Gambling is a very secretive and lonely addiction and for me it is these very things that make it the worst. There are often no outward signs that somebody is a CG, so the people close to us don't suspect until it is too late. There is a responsibility on the gambling firms, media and government to educate would be CG's whilst helping active CG's and the people closest to them but while it is such a big and easy money maker I can't see it happening anytime soon and we will no doubt continue with them pushing it down our throats.
I totally agree, the whole 'responsible gambling' message the industry portrays its just a scam. For example if they were serious about even underage gambling, you would have to show ID at the door to get in, like in a nightclub. The reason you don't have to show ID BEFORE you start to gamble, is that the gambling industry enjoys the profits of children gambling and likes to get them hooked as young as possible.
I also found it helpful to turn the hatred I used to have for myself onto the industry that does nothing good for anyone; its just a bunch of really lazy greedy people that can't be arsed to provide a genuine service or product, and we were all idiots for giving money to these greedy nasty evil people that use manipulative games to bleed poor children of their dinner money.
Make sure you come to the live chats you'll get way better help there.
Oh my god...I've discussing this with my partner. I just came clean again after getting myself in more mess than the last 2 times. But how hard do they make it by shoving it in your face 24/7. From the morning to night. Jeremy Kyle (sponsored by foxy bingo) the chase now sponsored by gala bingo. I couldn't sleep the other night trying to understand how I got myself into this mess so I put tv on....dedicated channels for gambling all night. My hubby watches lot sports beltway, b****5 ect ect.
Also I said instead of an online casino allowing you to deposit ridiculous amounts when you register a new account. Why don't they allow only a maximum of £5 until you've verified you are who you say you are BEFORE you either lose a **** load of money or have a decent win try to withdraw it then they won't let you have it until your have sent in documents etc. Find out you've set up duplicate accounts and won't let you have it anyway.....cos they are life sucking leaches that's why!! That should be made standard procedure I think surely!
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.
