I’ve had a problem with gambling for a few years, not to the point of getting into debt. More betting for the sake of it, chasing losses and losing time with my family.
Thanks for GamStop and GamBan I feel like Im finally in a good place. There are still triggers such as 3pm on a Saturday but that is subsiding each week. Its currently 80 days since I put all the blocks in place.
My family do not know about my problem which made the annual Cheltenham gold cup party a difficult day. To keep my secret I got my wife to put me £2 on each race and told her to keep my £10 return. That day was definitely a big trigger for negative thoughts but also a proud day (may sound strange) that it didn’t lead to starting betting again.
Dear pontefract-pigeon,
It is really good to hear that you feel that you are in a better place with your gambling and that you managed to have a successful day despite big triggers.
We just wanted to let you know that if you did want additional support for yourself or your family, we offer support that is local and free via a one to one service. There is also support available via groups both online or offline.
If you did have any questions or queries at all, please feel free to contact our HelpLine on 0808 8020 133 and our 1:1 Livechat. Both open 24 hours every day.
We wish you all the best,
Kind regards,
Tommy
Forum Admin.
Well done for doing 80 days and due to the circumstances you did the best thing by not accepting the money you had gained.
You seem to be pretty wise so far and so early on on you're recovery journey. I hope one day you will be able to tell you're friends and family the issues you are facing. It's not for everyone and not everyone in my network knows my past or gambling addiction but I try to stay truthful to myself as I go. It's hard but abstaining from gambling is best.
Keep on going and filling you're time with family and friends
Dave101
@dave101 Thanks for your kind words.
I almost feels embarrassed to admit to anyone I have a problem. I wouldn’t want friends and family to act differently around me or assume that I’ve got money problems.
I’ve tried stopping before but this time with the right restrictions in place it feels different.
@pontefract-pigeon yes the addiction wants you also not to tell anyone so when you slip up again... No one will know so you can continue without consequences.
Thats been my experience, anyways I hope it works out for you as some people might be different
Dave101
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