[better22]

Hey i’m 23 years of age and currently live in Australia. I’ve always been fond of betting against friends since a kid really, I would bet my clothing, money and shoes with friends over video games and basketball shots etc. At about 17 I found myself and my friends sneaking into local TAB’s and betting on the horses, greyhounds and sports. $20-$100 maximum back then here and there.

When I turned 19 I set up a sports betting account and I’d bet on the football. I was winning some money and felt good with the wins. Realistically I wasn’t really a ‘problem gambler’ until last year when covid hit. Living in Melbourne being stuck inside has made it difficult to pass time and I found myself gambling all my savings away. I have lost around $100,000 in a year and have nothing to show to my name. I’m ashamed of myself and hide my problem from my family and friends.

I gamble to escape from reality, to numb my body and get lost in the chase of the wins or losses. Highs and lows it’s like taking a pill of ecstasy! It’s a quick fix but I always feel terrible after because I don’t know when to stop.

Earlier this year I won $100,000 I think I got up to $95,000 so I was up about $20,000 but I got greedy I didn’t realise the value behind that money because it was behind a computer screen and I lost it all!

Now I find myself losing my fortnightly pay checks online to sportsbetting accounts and I know I must stop now to turn my life around but yet it seems so hard to do so. I used to be suicidal at times but these days I don’t feel much to be honest. It’s like it has just become the ‘norm’ for me to not feel or think of the consequences i’ve caused which is concerning.

I feel better getting this off my chest. If anyone is reading this I wish you all the best on your journey in life <3

[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!

[Author]

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