On deadly ground (1994) Steven Seagal

Foundations, hence the title

I enjoy writing these daily topics under the film titles as they are a good reminder to me about what I'm trying each day to do. I post them on both Gamcare and Evive so, this one won't work in the States but the general idea is the same across the world. It's only written from my experience.

For me, I feel that the foundations or ground work to my recovery has been absolutely key. It didn't look like the below at the start, but over time I've done a few injections to the foundations which I think is important and to ensure those foundations are as strong as they can be. Some might say they don't need to build from the ground up, but I did and needed all the help I could get as I don't trust me, let alone the disease.

So, I thought that to rebuild my life with walls and a roof to keep addiction out , I would need firm foundations. 

Firstly I put blocks/barriers in place which looked like this

Selfexcluson

Full five years on Gamstop to block all online UK registered sites. I registered with Moses even though I've not been in a bookmaker for 15 years. I also signed up to sense (not been in a physical casino for over 30 years but it's better to be safe than sorry). To make absolutely sure I wrote to every online account I had and self excluded. I was so rude to them that I also got put on gamprotect just for another layer. I believe that I've complained so much that they have probably banned me for life, hopefully.

Blocking apps

I signed up to Gamban which literally blocks all gambling sites and apps on my phone and laptops. To make sure, all my family mobiles have it on as well and my daughter's laptop. This not only stops me but gives peace of mind to my loved ones.

Banking

I then worked on banking. I closed my bank accounts down and opened an online bank account with no branches. I picked Monzo because they also charge for cash withdrawals and deposits. I blocked gambling transactions and reduced cash withdrawal limit to the minimum

Accountability

So I gave my partner and mother full access to my app by giving them the passcode. I leave my phone hanging around so either can look. I know at the age of 56 it sounds childish but who cares. It another layer that protects me and keeps them happy. 

I have accountability to Gamcare and Evive, to both of those amazing communities. Accountability to my GA groups. I've literally told everyone I know to add more and more accountability but that's my choice only and each to their own. I love having accountability, I don't find it stressful at all.

My partner knows how much cash I have at any time which I keep to a minimum. Whether I am paying by card or cash, I get receipts and put them in a pot at home so keep everyone safe and happy.

All blocks etc can be beaten but I just needed half an hour from a thought to gamble to change my mind which generally I have wherever I am. That friction is important

Once I had the foundations at ground level sorted, it meant it would be incredibly difficult to gamble. Building the walls, roof and furnishing the noise, ready to move in would stop me wanting to gamble. 

Like a house, once you finish you have to start again and keep putting the work in 

Would love to know what other people think as I'm learning every day and we can all help each other