Needed to take this step for a while...
I've gambled (sports and racing) since the age of 18, which is about 15 years now - typically more than I could afford to lose from the very beginning. The amount that I've lost over that time would top six figures.
I've made numerous attempts to quit over the years, but have always ended up coming back to it sooner than later. I need to kick this habit, which has blighted my adult life, before it ruins it. I had my last bet (a loser obviously!) on Tuesday (29 May 2018) and have survived the last two days gamble free.
I need to rebuild my life and, if I'm going to do that, then gambling can have no place within it. Currently on Day 3 of recovery. Looking forward to marking Day 300, 3000 and so on.
Day 4 safely negotiated. Feeling determined
Day 5 done without any issues. Worry there will be harder days ahead though
Day 6 and no problems. Feel as though I must stay on guard though
Day 7 - A full week negotiated safely. Feeling optimistic
Day 8 crossed off. Starting to enjoy planning for a future without gambling. Many things that didn’t seem possible to me whilst I was gambling now seem worthwhile and achievable. I need to hold on to this optimism.
Day 9 safely negotiated yesterday. The fact that I have no online access to accounts is really proving helpful in retraining my brain and changing my habits.
Well done on 9 days, we’ve quit at a similar time I’m 12 days in.
Try not to think about what you’ve lost, going by your figures if you can save in the next ten years what you’ve been gambling then you’ll be sorted. And you’re only 33 so it’s all good 🙂
Thank you my friend.
Well done to you too. I related to your shower curtain purchase story on your own diary as well. I was able to shop for non essential items for the first time in ages yesterday because I hadn’t wasted every penny gambling. It’s a good feeling.
We can do this! Best of luck
Into double figures now. Day 10. Money’s gonna be tight for a long while due to debt issues, but it was nice to be able to afford a couple of drinks with friends last night because I’d not wasted everything in the bookies. Feeling positive.
Day 11 crossed off yesterday. A family member very generously gifted me a few pounds as I guess it was obvious that I’ve been struggling financially. In the past there would have been only one place that that money would have ended up...But never again. Feeling upbeat
Day 12 done. No issues. Will treat myself somehow to mark two weeks gamble free on Tuesday I think
Day 13 done gamble free. Today was more of a struggle than most so far. My biggest gambling vice has always been football and the World Cup starting in a few days is at the back of my mind. Determined to stay strong though
Made it 2 weeks! My previous (recorded) best effort was 18 days before caving back in 2013. Felt strong yesterday, but am still nervous regarding the World Cup - particularly England games.
Day 15 negotiated with no problems. Need to stay committed. Find that this diary helps with focus.
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