Sick of gambling & struggling

[Dena]

Hi I have gambled again today when I said I would not I work on myself all the time reading self help books and meditation but this gambling has a hold on me when I get paid I go to the VLT's. Strenght is lost and out of control when I start thinking about gambling I think I am going to win all the money back and it will solve my problems but I know it is not true I still go. I am so sick of it all. I am smart in so many ways but not in this way.

[ShaunGTI]

Hi Dena,

Don't beat yourself up just yet. You are not alone. We have all been in your shoes when it comes to the grip that gambling can hold us by. Are the VLT's you play at a casino or more like a bar? Is self-exclusion an option to you to get away from the VLT's?

I found a small little exercise you may find useful. Two columns, one is positive and one negative. Write down what gambling does for you under each column. Post this up or carry it with you as a referrance when you get the urge. The first few days and week(s) are the hardest, but don't let that stop you from ataining your goals. You can do it if you put your mind to it!

[Dena]

Thanks I am going to do that. I have been going to the VLT's at the bar and casino. I have not talked to anybody about this in years all I keep doing is trying myself and to finally talk to someone is a relief I have kept it inside for so long it does not seem real anymore. It seems like I am in some other life for 2-3 hours and when I come out I am back to normal with no money and sadness.

[Bruce]

Hi Dena, talking about your issues is a great first step. It's hard to be untruthful with yourself when you write down how you feel and it is there for you to see. if you feel tempted to gamble try posting here instead and by the time you have finished writing you may feel less tempted.

Bruce