here we go, day 1

Hi PA

Well done on your first 24 hours

You will get a lot of support on this forum from other folks who are in the same situation

Take one day at a time and every day you will win when you don't play

We cannot win because we cannot stop

The triangle is a good barrier

Time money location take one of these away and it's impossible to play

I wish you well on this new journey to a new sane life without gambling in it

Be strong and determined and positive

Gambling is a total waste of our lives

Best wishes Suzanne x

day 2 like a roller coaster.

been asked who was i backing for the golf not only made me think about that but also that i was that person that was asked about who to bet on.

obviously people didn't know how far i had taken the addiction. a deep breath needed more than once when the realisation hit me of what i had lost the last few months.

on a positive note going for a long walk with the other half at the end of the day instead of going to the bookies put a smile on my face that I've been sadly missing.

i will beat this for more moments like this

day3.

about to go to first meeting. feeling nervous. must do this.

visiting GA on friday was the second best decision I've made since trying to beat this. all the people i met genuinely had time for me. wanted to listen and want to help.

listening to them and recognising my own traits in there stories no longer makes me feel alone.

I'm already looking towards the next meeting. I'm going to take strength from others around me.

after this yesterday was a horrible day its the first weekend into my battle. i had money in my pocket and was out with a group of friends who are unaware of what i am going through.

it was a roller coaster of a day as they spoke of betting. the lure of the bandits in the pubs was also strong. however i resisted all urges. had a great day and came home with money in my pocket. which would have been unheard of just a week ago.

feel like i am counting days at the minute but yet day 5 is under my belt and possibly the longest without a bet in ten years or so. building on positives.

feeling frustrated today as my other half is questioning my monetary usage. i understand it is going to take a while to build her trust and support however been asked why i have money in my pocket isn't helping.

i have money in my pocket because i haven't blown it!

this is probably strange to her as it would not normally be the case. i want and i need her support.

feels like more questions than answers at the moment

Hi PA

5 days is good going well done

Forgive me but your comment about your OH questioning as to why you have money in your pocket

And your answer because I havent blown it and her being surprised that you actually have some money made me chuckle

It just shows how ridiculous this addiction is

Your OH is supporting you but don't forget she has suffered too

Don't be too hard on yourself and don't be too hard on your OH taking one day at a time things will get better

Thanks for making me smile in a nice way

Keep strong and keep going tomorrow you will feel different again

Suzanne xx

Thanks Suzanne

Looking back the comment about the money in my pocket has put a smile on my face.

Today is day 7. Still feeling strong and committed to this.

Feels like an age ago that I admitted I had a problem. I already feel a different person and that I am living a better life because of it.

Got to keep this going.

Hi PA

Good for you and one whole week gamble free

Keep going and keep strong cos to gamble is a ridiculous waste of time money and our lives

Suzanne x

Thanks Suzanne

Looking back the comment about the money in my pocket has put a smile on my face.

Today is day 7. Still feeling strong and committed to this.

Feels like an age ago that I admitted I had a problem. I already feel a different person and that I am living a better life because of it.

Got to keep this going.

Hi paj83,

I'm glad to hear that you're doing well!

I am on Day 1 at the moment, I might look into GA, I am not the most confident of people when it comes to people I don't know, what's it like?

hi,

i must admit i sat outside for ages before deciding to go in. it was the right decision to go in.

i was humbled by how genuine and helpful people where to me. it was really nice to speak to and listen to people that have shared your experiences. i could see my traits in them as I'm sure they could in me

i left with a smile on my face and a feeling that these 'strangers' want me to succeed and are there for me should i need help in between meetings.

i would strongly recommend going.

hope you find it as helpful as i have

day 8. not the best of days. felt like I've been riding the crest of a wave but today has been a low one.

too much time to think and bad memories flooding back. no urge to bet but just feeling sick for the issues i have been battling.

another day ticked off though. full steam ahead tomorrow

Hi PA

I call this a roller coaster ride because our feelings change everyday and you will feel full steam tomorrow

As you tick the days off it will get easier it's still very fresh in your mind

One day at a time ticking those days off will be sooo positive for you and well done on 8 days you are in your second week free from gambling

Keep going and keep strong

Suzanne xx

the thought of gambling makes me feel sick , so hope you feel sick at that thought aswell , or if its because of what gambling has left behind its still kinda a good thing as this puts us all off gambling even more , well done for getting through the day keep strong , all the best simon