[Londoner191]

Hi as an addicted gambler for 20 years I am trying to get control of my life back. I have stopped online gambling which is where I have lost thousands of pounds over the years
and all online accounts are blocked. I have seen a counsellor for gambling addiction which really helped but I have now slipped back into gambling
on sports matches on fixed betting terminals in betting shops. I tend to go at lunchtimes and bet on stupid sports that I know nothing about and simply
follow the odds.

I know that what I am doing is stupid but something in my brain will not stop me doing it and even though I promise myself not to do it at the start of the day I fall
into the trap and end up betting. This is really starting to frustrate me as I want to stop but dont know how.

I aim to post on this forum everyday with an update on whether I have gambled or not and I hope that I can break this habit and fast.

Would appreciate any tips or thoughts from other people that have been in this type of situation

Thank you

[Ryan123678]

Hi. It might be embarrassing but asked to be banned from the betting shops. Only take money out that you will need no extra or bank cards. Try to find something else to occupy your time and mind. There are always people here to talk to if you get the urge to gamble post on here or read other people’s threads. Good luck keep us updated

[Londoner191]

Thank you very much for your advice and these are some great tips, I really appreciate the response and I am determined to stop this so I will definitely post if I have the urge to gamble. I think the key thing for me is to find something else to do at lunchtimes. 

[Steev]

It is going to happen, because once we have been gambling for a while, our brains are wired to respond to things by betting. We have to find a way of re-wiring our brain circuits and the best way is to find something else that we can establish as a habit. Preferably something that will improve our lives, not make them worse.

I tried all sorts of things but settled on walking – but I know some people find that boring. Instead of a betting shop – how about a library (if there are any left) or charity shops (as long as you don’t spend too much?)

I also just wonder if it is worth going back to the counselling – seeing that you found that useful. I wish you well.

[Londoner191]

Very helpful information and thanks for taking the time to share your experience. I love walking so will definitely try doing this tomorrow to keep my mind off of gambling and will take every day at a time. I will also schedule some time to see the counsellor again. 

I did not gamble for 5 months after seeing the counsellor previously so it definitely helped and prehaps I underestimated how easy it is to fall back off the wagon and was too confident that I had overcome any gambling urges. 

Thank you for your well wishes and I will let you know how I get on. 

All the best

[dunc]

Hello and thanks for starting a thread in the Gambling Therapy forums

Here at Gambling Therapy we pride ourselves on being a caring and diverse online community who can help and support you with the difficulties you’re currently facing. We understand that this might be a tough time for you, particularly if you’re new to recovery, so come here as often as you need to and participate in the forums, access online groups and connect to the live advice helpline if you need one to one support. We’re in this together!

Here on the forum you can share your experiences in a safe, supportive and accepting environment. The beauty of writing it all down is that you can take your time and you will be creating a record of your progress that you can look back on if it ever feels like you’re not moving forward. So, share as much or as little as you like but do try to stick to keeping just one thread in this forum so people know where to find you if they want to be updated on your progress or share something with you.

As well as the forums New Members are invited to join Charles in the New Members Practical Advice Group On Mondays at 21:00 (UK) and Thursday at 19:00(UK)

And on that note….

I’m going to hand you over to our community because I’m sure they will have some words of wisdom for you 🙂

Take care

The Gambling Therapy Team

PS: Let me just remind you to take a look at our privacy policy and terms and conditions so you know how it all works!

[Autor]

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