Since joining this site a month or so ago I've had some interesting 'conversations' with newcomers who have suddenly stopped posting. This worries me. If it's because they have gleaned enough to carry on with their recovery, then that's great, but if you are reading this and have not posted for a while because a) you are feeling too low, or b) you have 'lapsed' and started gambling again, or both, then please come back if you can. The help, support and good vibes on here are such a good antidote to the gambling disease that I'm sure you will feel better. You certainly won't be judged badly for any lapse!
Hello baggins. I am one who has drifted off this site and yes you are right. A number of losses have followed and I now realise again that that's it. Have had enough this time. But I say this regularly.
Hi Baggins, a very good point to raise and one which I indentify with wholeheartedly.
Since I joined seven years ago, it has always been the same; people join, pour their heart out and leave.
When (or if) they return, it is almost always after a huge collapse or slip; I was the same, I left the Forum for a while because any thought of gambling was too much - I didn't feel it was helping me and maybe others feel the same.
But now I realize that it was a mistake - this is why I have mentioned to GAMCARE that it is really, really important to maintain contact with others; I have asked them on many an occasion to have another part of the Forum which is non-gambling related, so we can just say hello, talk about how we are doing or anything else.
It does concern me that people drift off. In other ways, I understand because gambling becomes a dirty word and most people in long-term recovery never want to think about gambling again. This inspired me to help others here as there aren't enough people who continue posting that have come through this - I can't blame them, there are some days where I find it difficult but you have to remember where you came from and those that are still fighting the good fight.
It's a shame because I get enormously buoyed by those who are doing well - it gives me a lift, it gives others a lift - I hope to see more people staying around for longer and I think a non-gambling related Forum Section would help.
JamesP
I am also one of those newcomers, I had a massive
Lapse (barely even stopped) didn't want to post too much incase it triggered thought sim others as I had my biggest win yet.. Before losing it that is, sorry about that mate
Thank you JamesP - I always enjoy reading your wise words. Your suggestion for a non-gambling forum is a good one - perhaps called 'Non-gambling chat' (?) where people could drop by to talk about all non-gambling related topics but at the same time feel part of the group and perhaps gradually contribute to the other forums.
To 'a new dawn' and 'lucky0' - many thanks for replying. Please come and join us again - I believe any contribution, however small, has worth, not only for the readers but for you in expressing your thoughts and feelings.
Best wishes,
Joanna
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