30-12-2009, 09:35 PM
Hi Luke,
Your story reminds me of myself, before I went to my first GA meeting just over a year ago.
One of the first things I learned is not to be ashamed. Compulsive gambling is an illness, which is unfortunately hidden by all the glitz and glamour of the gambling industry.
I dont know if you have made a meeting yet, but it would really help you if you did.
Just seeing and meeting other people with similar problems to myself really helped me.
I also found that my friends and family were more supportive than I expected. I would expect you might find the same.
You will also find people at GA meetings can offer support in a way that people without gambling problems cant. Basically because they understand from a first hand point of view your situation.
I also learn some great tips on avoiding gambling at my meetings. There are some simple precautions that can really help. Like not carrying cash. Or self-excluding yourself from gambling establishments, or online casinos.
Its not easy, but if you dont give up, you will find eventually things will get better.
Your story reminds me of myself, before I went to my first GA meeting just over a year ago.
One of the first things I learned is not to be ashamed. Compulsive gambling is an illness, which is unfortunately hidden by all the glitz and glamour of the gambling industry.
I dont know if you have made a meeting yet, but it would really help you if you did.
Just seeing and meeting other people with similar problems to myself really helped me.
I also found that my friends and family were more supportive than I expected. I would expect you might find the same.
You will also find people at GA meetings can offer support in a way that people without gambling problems cant. Basically because they understand from a first hand point of view your situation.
I also learn some great tips on avoiding gambling at my meetings. There are some simple precautions that can really help. Like not carrying cash. Or self-excluding yourself from gambling establishments, or online casinos.
Its not easy, but if you dont give up, you will find eventually things will get better.