Hi All
I have had a gambling addiction since I was 20, and have been through the addiction ringer ever since.
I did around 6 months gamble free until a massive relapse just before Christmas. I don’t know what it is about that time of year but it is prime time for my relapse for some reason.
I have over £50k in debt and have entered a DMP to manage my finances. This is the second time I have had to do this.
I am not happy or proud about where I am out but through experience I know kicking myself when I am down also won’t help get back on the recovery journey. I am here and back in recovery, and for now that is enough. Whilst I have my times I am frustrated, I am optimistic that 2024 can be my first GF year in 12+ years.
I’m done looking behind me and reflecting on the guilt and chaos that has been by life. I have an opportunity now for a new life, free of addiction and that is the one I WILL pursue.
This isn’t my first rodeo but I will throw everything to make sure that it is my last. But for now one day, staying gamble free will get me to where I need to be.
Hello and happy new year to everyone. Let’s fight together and support each other on our journeys . Addiction is a cruel mistress, my love and encouragement is sent to you all.
Freedom Awaits!
Thats a very positive start since using this website i have seen a massive improvement since many relapses i have had over the years i have managed just under 6 months from all the support i have recieved on here, one day at time best best way at looking at as each day brings new challenges get yourself barred and hand over finances if possible do as much as u can to reduces the damages u can try ga or the online services plenty of support available here, in all honestly i have only realized this is a life long illness with right support and help we can make a better life for ourself usually first couple of weeks its tough once the brain sets it does eventually get easier thats when you need to have some support in place it might be a case of few hours ongoing therpy a week it well worth it i hope you well
Thanks Tazman, I’ve had great support here and had helped already. Only 5 days GF and already had some challenging times. I am starting to realise the same about this being a life long illness. Thank you for the advice - I have banned myself everywhere I can and handed over as much financial responsibility as possible. Congrats on your 6 months. That’s amazing. One day is how we manage this. Some difficult times overthinking and mental punishment, but this too shall pass I know.
all the best.
for another day gamble free!
Hi all
Wanted to write an update on my 11th day of being GF. It has been a bloody rollercoaster of emotions to accepting my recent relapse to self deprivation to being so close so many times to gambling to try and win back some of my losses.
i am really proud to say that I did not cave and I am still GF. For me I never “win” I am in debt and even if I did “win” it would go back to the casino anyway.
My have been difficult to manage so far often I am sad and loathing and other times I have this drive to search for that high only gambling gives you. I have accepted this, this is part of the journey most of us know to well but it is always harder than we remember.
being part of this community is helping and can’t wait to get to the month GF mark. Until then have a great day.
freedomawaits
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