Hello all,
I've known for a while now that I have gambling issues that extend well into the realm of addiction and have taken numerous steps to rid myself of this problem:
Support
1) Counselling
2) GA (Gamblers Anonymous)
3) Hypnotherapy
4) Hypnosis
5) CBT & Psychodynamic Therapy
Practical Steps
1) Installing Betfiler on my Laptop
2) Disabling browsing and the ability to access websites on Iphone
3) The disposal of my cards - I have cut them all up to restrict access to my cash!
4) Self Exclusion: I have self exlcuded from over 100 betting/gambling establishments to date
I have done all of this, and more, to try and escape this mess I have found myself in. I have exhasted all treatment options and support services, including paying for private treatments, and simply don't know what else to do. Is there such a thing as a true recovery? Can a problem gambler really stop for good? Even if a recovery is possible, I think it's is fair to say that there will likely be a vulnerability that will remain intact - possibly for the rest of my life. This is another concern because this represents the possibility of a future relapse years ahead.
I understand that I was not born a problem/compulsive gambler, as I am sure almost all of you would agree; this is an issue that has developed througout the course of my life for whatever reason - most likely a myriad of factors. I'd do absolutely anything to stop - and I want to stop for good - but can't seem to escape the powerful grip that this addiction has over me.
I ask myself why gambling, and why not, say, alcohol? I think about it all the time: the regrests, urges, shame, guilt, etc. The stress living with this illness is massive, and I have debts of about £20,000 to service - this is costing me approximately £500 in payments each and every month.
Any advice/feedback/guidance/comments are welcomed.
Thank you all!
Hello 29gamguy,
It sounds like however much you are determined to stop gambling and despite of you taking all the right steps, there is still a part of you that is holding on to gambling. It is very important that you understand fully what emotional need gambling is serving for you in order to overcome the problem. Emotions sometimes can be well hidden and are expressed through behaviours we don’t understand, like compulsive gambling.
I would recommend that long term therapy could reveal what is behind your gambling behaviour and you can then begin to see things clearer and start being in control of your actions. You could find a local private therapist at www.bacp.co.uk. I suggest that you call a few and have a conversation to get a feel about who you are most comfortable with, before you choose one. Also read about what counselling / psychotherapy is and what to expect from it.
Having said all the above, yes you are right in thinking that most likely you would always be vulnerable and that is why on-going support is important in order to keep yourself on the right tract. This could be attending GA meetings, calling the Helpline or following other strategies that are suited to you.
I hope you find the above helpful and you can always get in touch with an advisor to discuss your situation. Our lines are open seven days a week from 8am until midnight.
All the best,
Ana
Forum Admin
I stopped for tewnty years.
with out any help when i was younger
Hope for me was the key the hope of a better life.
I set out goals in life i wanted to reach.
You need to forgive your self for past mistakes, not easy trust me i know.
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