[Defeated2015]

If I continue to gamble I will lose everything I work so hard for. Obviously I lost money , otherwise my sick mind contemplating another bing instead of trying to get help. But, I also know it doesn’t take me long to forget about my losses and go back out. I’m so tired of myself and so disgusted of myself for the lies and pretending everything is ok. I want to stop before hitting rock bottom. Please help me. I can’t control myself.

[charles]

Hi Defeated,

Well done on looking for help.

When it comes to gambling then accepting defeat is actually a good place to be – it means we can stop fighting it, stop trying to beat the bookies/casino/where ever it is that you gamble.

Read the other stories here, you will see a lot similar to your own. You will also see the success stories – whata re they doing that you can apply to your own situation? Sad has already given you some good suggestions.

Keep posting and let us know what positive steps you are taking.

[kin]

What is Gambling Addiction?
In 2013, the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) classified compulsive gambling as an addictive disorder similar to substance (drug and alcohol) addiction.
Gambling addiction is considered a type of process addiction in which an activity stimulates the brain in a similar way that drugs and alcohol do – to the point that an addicted gambler will pursue the activity at all costs.
Signs and Symptoms of Gambling Addiction
Problem gambling, or gambling addiction can be seen in a variety of ways, but the most obvious symptoms are as follows:
1. Gambling when you do not have money.
Gambling can be fun when you have money to spare. But when funds are low and gambling still takes priority, this is definitely a sign of addiction.
2. Borrowing or stealing money in order to gamble.
When funds have fun out, addicts will do anything to get more money in order to place more bets. In these cases, problem gamblers will often take out loans, or turn to family and friends to borrow money. When nobody is willing to lend any more money, the only option left is to steal cash or items that they can sell.
3. Gambling to change or enhance your mood.
Did you have a great day at work and want to go out gambling to celebrate? Did you get in a fight with a spouse and want to gamble to make yourself feel better? When gambling becomes a way to alter your mood, it is a sign of a developing (or developed) addiction.
4. Gambling for longer than intended.
This is something that happens frequently with problem gamblers. They will intend to play a couple rounds of cards, or place just a few bets in the casino – but those couple rounds can turn into many rounds, and money will start to disappear quickly.
5. Lying about how much you gamble.
Denial is a big part of any addiction. It is hard to admit to that an activity has so much control over one’s life, and thus a problem gambler will begin to lie about their gambling habits. They will lie to loved ones about where they were and where their money has gone. And they will lie to themselves as well – most frequently they believe they can stop when they want to, but that is not the case. Especially if they have depleted their funds and still continue to gamble.
6. Feelings of remorse after gambling.
When the adrenaline of placing bets is over, and the reality of their monetary losses sets in, remorse takes over. Remorse is a clear sign that gambling has stopped being fun and has begun to be a serious problem.
Effects of Gambling Addiction
The most obvious effect of this addiction is loss of money which leads to unpaid bills, credit collectors and even the loss of their home and car. A gambling addict will also often get so wrapped up in gambling that they miss work and social events which could result in job loss and problems in their close relationships.
Gambling Addiction Treatment
Gambling addiction treatment can be administered in both outpatient or inpatient treatment centres which will depend on several factors including the severity of the addiction and the lifestyle and responsibilities of the addict, among others.
It is important to find an addiction rehabilitation centre that has experience dealing with process addictions, as some addiction treatment centres focus on drugs and alcohol only. It is also important to seek help as soon as you are aware of the problem, as the sooner an addiction is treated, the higher the chances are of a successful recovery.

[kin]

Autobiography of an addict in 5 short chapters

Chapter 1

I walk down the street,
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk, I fall in.
I am lost, I am hopeless. It take forever to find a way out.

Chapter 2

I walk down the same street,
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk, I pretend I dun see it,
I fall in again. I can’t believe I am in the same place.
But I believe it isn’t my fault. It still takes a long time to get out.

Chapter 3

I walk down the same street, There is a deep hole in the sidewalk, I see it is there, I still fall in
It‘s a habit. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately

Chapter 4

I walk down the same street, There is a deep hole in the sidewalk, I walk around it

Chapter 5

I walk down another street

[Author]

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