hi. I’m finally waking up to what my gambling addiction has been doing to my life. I haven’t gambled for 8 days now and although I know it’s not very long, I still feel quite happy about that.
The main catalyst for this has been a break up in my relationship. I feel so sorry for her after trying on numerous times to help me, but I kept pushing her away.
I know in the long term that this might well end becoming a positive, if it’s the starting reason for me stopping gambling, but right now all I can think of is the disappointment that I didn’t wake up 6 months / a year ago, and that I’ve hurt the person who means the most to me.
Back to where I am now, although I feel determined and confident that I can achieve this, I still want to try and get help where I can, to help me understand things a little better I guess. I spoke to someone from GamCare on the phone, and they have put me in touch with ARA, who do one on one sessions. I’m not 100% what to expect from them, but feel a little better having rang them, and I’m just waiting for them to call back to arrange my first meeting. I’m also thinking ill join in the chats on here as I could do with someone to talk to at the very least.
Just wondering what experiences people have of using 1to1 counselling, and whether it’s the best thing or not. Also, if anyone else has been in the same boat regarding the breakup of a relationship due to gambling, I’d like to know how you coped.
Thanks.
Paul.
Hi Paulh85
Thank you for your post and well done for not gambling for 8 days. It may only be a short time but you have taken a big step forward in facing up to your problem and taking responsibility for your actions.
You may be interesting in keeping an online journal on the 'Recovery diaries' section of the forum:
http://www.gamcare.org.uk/forums/recovery-diaries
Many people find face to face counselling helpful as it is a safe and confidential space for you to discuss the impacts of your gambling and to explore why it is you are doing it. The sessions would usually be once weekly, lasting just under an hour at a time, at the same time and place, with the same person so that you can establish a trusting relationship with them.
Please use all the tools available to you here at Gamcare and keep posting.
Best wishes
Forum Admin.
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.
