Hi Tina,
are there any non profit or free reputable credit counseling services available in your area? I wouldn’t talk to the bank about gambling addiction. If you want to say anything to the bank I’d say you are dealing with health issues. I would gather all bills, open, take to credit counselor and see what your options are. Also, check with the Gamblers Anonymous people (you said they had a phone line you called? ). They may have some suggestions as well as many local groups can have a financial crisis meeting for a member. My group didn’t do these so I’m not sure what help they give. It may just be help opening and sorting bills and coming up with a short term plan as well as credit agency referal. They can’t sort your bills over the phone but they may have a referral for you and or some suggestions on what to tackle while you wait to see a credit counselor. It may seem overwhelming. But baby steps. One foot in front of the other. Just keep trying to make the next right decision. For all the grey you will find positives. This addiction must make you a more empathetic counselor. I think recovery will make you a more personally aware counselor. Not that you would ask for this experience. But it is yours now. I’m rooting for a happy ending 🙂
Laura
