SunnyW

Maybe deal with getting the facts on your health issue first. Fear and not knowing is scary enough. Please focus on you. This is a response and reaction to a fear. Gambling can numb that for awhile and then kick you hard when you see how much money and time gone. All the best to you.

Yes I think letting others know especially family has a way of making us more accountable and focused to stop.

Reaching out and coming to terms is brave. You are halfway there now. We have all messed up at some point, and just salvage what we can and step up and continue to learn and adjust our lives. All the best to you.

Process what just happened, and then start over building your money back up. I’d usually feel horrified, angry, or disbelief. It really sucks to lose it all. I’ve lost pay checks and wait for the next payday, sacrifice bills, food or a vacation. If you can find ways to put aside some $$ money in an account that you can’t touch

I started focusing on tasks to do like baking, purging old things and cleaning out cupboards and closets. It felt like I was getting my home and mind back in order and simplicity. It certainly brought a feeling satisfaction. Also planning your day out with things you can do helps.

Not alone! Most of us have spent it all and live pay cheque to pay cheque not paying bills on time, etc. we understand the patterns and the desperation and angst of this crazy ride. Day 1 start. All the best and more determination to you and those resolving to quit this.

Now I feel like going to the casino! But I won’t, just give myself a moment to let it pass. But I do notice when I get anxious or frustrated, that thought pops up. So awareness is #1

Are you permanently self excluded? I did for a couple of years and went on the occasional trip stateside maybe 2-3 times a year. I sure saved money doing that.

That is a very similar pattern for me also. Great expectations, then hit up the bank machine, from different accounts to spread it out or make it look not as bad as it is. I’m not an everyday gambler more like a payday gambler and a couple days in between. But the binges I do, would make up for being everyday. So we admit we have a problem and i…[Read more]

I used to hike and trail walk everyday. It was a high and I felt like I couldn’t miss a day. Very healthy time of my life. I’m much older now and would like to start again slowly. My health has declined recently.

About day 7 or 8 for me. When I had an urge to go I started baking and made 2 lovely meals. My trick is to sit with it for at least few minutes until it passes. Then do it again. Have to verbally say to myself, not a good idea, save your $$$

That’s a pretty good run of 10 years! It’s a relapse and you dust yourself off and ride again. No shame. You will be back on track. I know of these disasters but you get through them.

That is a great choice and planning for success! You know you, and taking safeguards is wise! Continued strength and persevere!

Be kind to yourself! Don’t be so hard on yourself. Gambling brings up all kinds of emotions , especially the stock bottom moments. Hang in there. You’ve done the hardest part now and reached out. Congrats! One day at a time, and some days will feel very empowered and some days not so much. Let those pass and all the best! We can stop the mad…[Read more]

Hang in there! It sounds like you are in a state and this too shall pass. Life is hard and beautiful. I can resonate with the self loathing. If it helps any, I’ve learned a lot in counselling and CBT and can share some insight. The toughest part of all this madness of gambling and any other stress is our thoughts and learning how to get curious w…[Read more]