[Fishfish]

I went on a huge bender all night last night.  I gambled until I had drawn out every penny I could.  Even while I’m hitting the ATM AGAIN, I know it’s insane, but I can’t stop myself.  

I’ve gone to GA many times, but quite frankly I’m bad at it.  I hear, understand and sympathize; but when I get the urge to gamble, I just throw all that training out the window and go.

I made the decision today to ban myself from all casinos within 250 miles of me.  I actually find this terrifying.  I had to make a notarized statement, send my pictures,

give my social security number, etc.  This is the only hope right now.  I should be happy with this decision, but I find it really scary.  I don’t want to do anything stupid, but

I don’t trust myself (for good reason).

Has anyone else done this?  Did it work for you?  I don’t have a big plan on how I’m going to deal with the emotions yet.

[vera]

I self excluded from several casinos and felt scared and bereft immediately .
The reason we feel like that is because most gamblers use gambling as a prop for underlying emotional issues.
It’s like taking a crutch from a cripple.
WELL DONE on taking steps to help yourself to be rid of this demon.
Just take deep breaths for now.
Don’t think ahead.
If you post in My Journal, you will get more replies/support.
I wish you well.

[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!

[Steev]

Well done for taking this step. I feel you know you had to but are perhaps having second thoughts about it?

I know when I was gambling it was almost like having an angel and a devil on each shoulder – one saying I should stay away and the other saying – just one more time – I might win! Too often the devil won.

Dealing with the emotions is key and that will be where you need support. Try GA again but if GA is not working for you, see if there is any access to counselling through your GP or Mind or other local organisations. If all else fails the Samaritans will listen to what is going on for you – they are not just there for the suicidal. Post on here and use the group sessions. I hope to hear more from you.

[Berta24449787]

It really is a cliche, one day at a a time. But the longer you put it off, the better you will feel about it and the easier it will get. Just give yourself a goal that is tough but not impossible. If you went daily, then try not to gamble for a week. If you went weekly, try a month. Soon you will be extending until it becomes easier and easier. Dont look at it as you will never be able to gamble again because your mind will not be able to accept it. Small steps. Wish you strength and luck.

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