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Sit with it, it will pass & distract yourself if it starts to feel unmanageable! As the numbness that gambling provided passes, you are going to start feeling again & with the bad will come the good!

You have my utmost respect. Keep it going. I am on Day 4, means nothing. You are on Day 30-something. Seismic. Don't let your guard down for a moment. We all know this is day-to-day. And you're not just making your own life better, although at times it might not seem so, you are helping others, like me, boost their resolve. Keep. It. Going.

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Stay strong pjc. I know how you feel when you say that you're in that mode of indifferent status of feeling. You just can't put a finger on it. Can't concentrate, anxious, bored. It's not really about the money - it's how we feel. I sometimes get into that frame of mind with drinking, knowing that it will give me that instant feel-good vibes. But with gambling it's much worse because if we relapse it often has a snowball effect. It's just not worth it!

Take a deep breath - and keep up your resolve to stay gf.

Any better now?

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Hi pjc. I can just see how hard you are fighting against the CG, but as you have found it's a persistant little bugg@r.

I think that we are at a similar stage in our recovery but the problem is that the gambling debts just don't go away. I've lost count of the times when I took out a consolidation loan, family loan, pay-day loan or re-mortage, only to find that this wasn't really the answer at all. If it lets us off the hook ( a quick fix solution), that pschologically allows us to disown the debts and the problem for a while. Much better, ( but initially tougher) is the approach which I am now taking; working hard, spending less and obviously abstaining from gambling. Gradually the debts will be paid off and I will be able to look forward to a more stable future with pride and gratitude.

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Sounds right. Gambling is a symptom. It really helps to see it this way. Addiction is so self-defeating - it doesn't happen unless there are issues lying behind it.

What I will say, is that learning how to deal with times when you feel down or withdrawn is a key to becoming healthier. Being high as a kite on life is great - but real confidence in yourself and your recovery comes from how you deal with difficult emotions.

Good wishes

Louis

Hi pjc. sorry to hear that you're a bit down and struggling. It sounds to me like you are feeling unhappy and anxious, and as cardhue says: dealing with the underlying issues and improving our self confidence is key to gaining a strong, positive perspective on life. You have a family and responsibilities, and I'm sure you will prove your worth and love to become a bold knight once again.

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Dark cloud passing.....

Starting to make some long term plans for my future and gambling plays no part in it.

Up today.........the rollercoaster of recovery continues

It's good that you're able to re-focus and consider a brighter future without gambling. You must try to leave the past issues behind and not let them be the ammunition for stress, anxiety or gambling urges. I know- easier said - than done, but you can move on and become stronger, more resilient and purposeful. Every positive decision you make, or accomplishment that you achieve will bring you and your family happiness and a sense of pride. Firstly however, in order to feel more in control of your emotions you'll hopefully benefit from councilling and medication. All the best.... Keep on fighting..... You're worth it !!!

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