Not sure if I'll continue this diary as I have a tendency to quit things that require effort but I need to do something right now. I've lost today's earnings and more and have done so 4 days out of the last 7 days. I've gambled since being a young teenager so for the last 30 years. Since trying to quit slots after accumulating huge debts and loosing almost everything 15 years ago I once went just over a year without gambling, that's the longest amount of time I've ever managed, what a useless idiot I am! I've had CBT, counselling, the best blocks possible and attended GA meetings, I'm currently waiting for the NHS Northern gambling clinic to contact me after self refering last week and will probably attend a weekly GA meeting again. I gambled today so will quit again tomorrow, I need to permanently stop gambling, if I can it will change my life.Â
Today I worked all day and gave my earnings to a machine again for the fourth time this week. I can't win because I can't stop playing until I have nothing left to play with so I will always loose. Plus it's a computer program that is designed to be addictive and also make large profits from its victims.
I'll quit again for the 1500th time and see how long it lasts.
I will always loose because I can't stop until I have nothing left.
The Forum admin will be able to provide some support and resources to help.
Hi @Dan,
Thanks for posting on the forum and sharing what’s happening with you. What you’re going through sounds very difficult and I hear the frustration coming through your words. You are continuing to make efforts to stop and that is the most important thing, you are reaching out, you’ve tried blocks, and cbt and are on the waiting list for the NHS service. Can I suggest that you give the helpline a ring so they can help you do some problem solving around keeping yourself safe from gambling in the short term? 0808 8020 133
Also don’t forget that the chatrooms can be a good source of support and can give you strength to keep making the effort https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/group-chatroom/
All the best and keep us posted
Jane
Forum Admin
can't win because I can't stop playing until I have nothing left to play with so I will always loose This is really the truth. Best of luck maybe this time something sticks P
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Hi Dan
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I'm 6 days in. It's hard and have been there before and know how tough it must be for you.
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I'm sure you've experienced that sinking feeling thinking how far can this go how can this stop how can this go on like I've gone through too.
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Remember time is the biggest healer and the longer you can go without playing, the easier it will get. And remember no matter what, the benefits of stopping and the long term will be life changing for you and really give you a quality of life you've not had before.
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I find writing things down with money for the next few months really helps too. It shows where you will be without gambling - even if it's a small amount to treat yourself. Writing it down helps you visualise your positive future that will come with stopping.
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I'm at an early stage but if you need to talk or anything support please feel free to write me
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