Hi Jay2k,
Congrats on recognizing you have a problem so early (and doing something about it). Many people go through a big portion of their lives gambling, only to realize it is a problem some 20 years down the road. You have seen the immediate affects of gambling. It sucks, it blows, it’s the worst. It sucks your soul out and robs you of your character and integrity. The good news is, it can be stopped.
I find the best way to break a bad habit is to create a new good habit. Being smarter with money has helped me a lot. I’ve made financial goals for myself, and made strict budgets adhering to these goals. I suggest you make some long term financial goals for yourself, because you are incredibly young and have time on your side (which is the most important thing to growing wealth).
First step, admit you have a problem (you have done this). Next step is action. GA never really helped me that much, but talking to people sure has (maybe it will be different for you). Action items you should take right now are self exclusion. Spend a day going to casinos/bookies around you (without cash or card) and just fill out self exclusion forms. Go to security and tell them you want to exclude yourself. Every experience I have done this has been nice, they take this seriously and will help you. It’s relieving to walk out of a casino knowing it is your last time there. Next step would be to block yourself from online sites. This has been a killer for me lately, but I have betfilter installed on my devices now, and have contacted support on pretty much every gambling site known to man asking to exclude me from playing there. Once you do both of these, things will get better.
Another important step is to come up with a money plan. Surrendering your finances to a trusted love one is a recommended suggestion on here and in GA. Currently, I have very strict spending limits on my debit card, and have cut up all my credit cards while I pay down the balances. Most days I just carry a little bit of cash for gas and food. Different techniques work for different people. The important thing is that you put barriers and strategies in place instead of just saying “I’m just going to be better with money” or “I’m never gambling again”. Breaking an addiction requires a lifestyle change. You have to commit to change or things will stay the same. Stay strong and know that you’re already WAY ahead of others in stopping. Good luck and keep posting.
–Nick