• PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 1 month, 1 week ago

    Day 37
    Still going strong gamble free over 5 weeks. Feeling good and proud of myself.
    It felt both awkward and good talking to people in person yesterday in my recovery group.

    I just keep reminding myself everyday of my goal (of being gamble free) and to be open and honest with my spouse.
    Take it one day at a time.

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 1 month, 2 weeks ago

    Day 29
    Still going strong gamble free!
    Seeing lots of newcomers. It’s not easy most of the time, but know that lots of people have been able to accomplish a gambling free life, so stay strong and take it one day at a time.
    We can all do this!

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 1 month, 3 weeks ago

    Day 23
    Still gamble free. No urges. My 10 week program finally starts next Tuesday, so looking forward to that.
    Told my son about my gambling addiction and the problems that came with it. Really hoping that it pushes him away from every starting.
    Keep at it and take it one day at time!

    • That’s wonderful Phil. Nice that you spoke with your son also hopefully your words do help him. As I’m sure before all of this you didn’t see where gambling would take you or what kind of a hold it could possibly have on a person. The was invisible before the onset of gambling. For me before ever placing a bet I thought it was a bit of a dark…[Read more]

    • YAY PhilG!! Gamble free is where the winners live.❤️❤️❤️

    • Good job! keep it up, were all rooting for you

    • Great work man, truly inspiring!!

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 1 month, 3 weeks ago

    Day 17
    Looks like, at least it feels like I got my head on straight now. Still no urges to gamble!
    I was waiting to start a 10 week program and just learned that I may only get to start either next week or the week after as it’s full.
    Too bad the government doesn’t have more of these programs available (at least in my area). Luckily I don’t…[Read more]

    • Nice too hear you are doing well. And yes the government should be more efficient. Good for you for hanging in their despite the wait.

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 1 month, 4 weeks ago

    Day 15
    Talk to someone, seek counselling, betblocker, ask someone to manage your finances are just a few tricks that can help you.
    You are not alone with this disease and if someone can beat it, that means ANYONE can do it!
    Take it one day at a time.

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 2 months ago

    Day 10!!! Double digits!
    Feeling great. Went to see a councilor yesterday and starting a 10 week (1 day a week) group program. Just waiting on a phone call to confirm my position and where it takes place.
    Got my pay today, and even having money in my bank account, I don’t have the urge to gamble.
    I’m grateful for my spouse’s support, support…[Read more]

    • Yey PhilG! 10 days is great! Recovery can take a lot of work but it can be done. Looks like you’re on the right path. Counselling has helped me so much with regards to my mental state. Happy gamble free days ahead of you !

    • Cjg replied 2 months ago

      Congrats on 10 Days Phil! You are an inspiration!

    • Congratulations Phil
      I like reading your post. The excitement you feel about recovery comes through your words loud and clear!
      Hugs. Have a wonderful day!

  • PhilG posted a new activity comment 2 months ago

    Great job! Admitting to a loved one is definitely a great step in recovery. Being completely open with my spouse and talking about it daily changed everything for the best. Also giving her full access to my financials holds me even more accountable and there no way I could hide it if the worst was to come.
    Stay strong and take it one day at a time.

    • Cjg replied 2 months ago

      Thanks Phil!

      It sure was tough but it was something that had to be done. I do need to tell those that a near and dear to me still but that will come soon enough. This is not my first go around with breaking down as I had a similar situation with my mother about 12 years ago. Im done living like this! I think we’re all done living like this!

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 2 months ago

    Day 8
    Still no urges to gamble. I strongly believe opening up fully to my spouse, and having her FULL access to my bank account/Credit Cards helped me a lot. Now I have nowhere to hide, and I really don’t want to disappoint her again.
    I was supposed to have a meeting yesterday with a councilor, but was pushed back to tomorrow due to bad weather. I…[Read more]

  • PhilG posted an update in the group Group logo of CommunityCommunity 2 months, 1 week ago

    Day 7
    Not sure why my account was deactivated. I had to re-create it…
    1 Week in and no urges to gamble. I am still disappointed with what I have done, but I am happy that the urges are not there.
    I have an appointment with a councilor this morning which will let me know of all the programs available in my area, so I’m grateful for that.
    Also so…[Read more]