I am a 31yr old male who has been fortunate to have a great job for the last 12 years. I have earned close to a million dollars in that time period and have nothing to show for it. Gambling has controlled my every move and cost me all that I have worked so hard for. I have ruined great relationships and hurt the people that love me the most. why? for a hidden compulsive addiction that controls my life. With the help of family and my girlfriend. I have finally realized after 15 years that if i don't make a change in my life i wont have a life to live. Sports betting and poker have been everything for me and I have to stop all of it and any form of gambling starting today. It's going to be very hard for me and I'm very lucky to have an amazing girlfriend,family and friends around me to support me through this tough time in my life. I am going to start going to G.A. meetings tonight and maybe seek one on one counseling as well. I feel like I should not only get myself right but try to help others before its to late for them. Compulsive gambling is the worst addiction there is. Its so easily hidden and can destroy peoples lives in a hurry. Its time for me to stop living a lie and pretending like everything is ok.
Welcome to SupportGroups.com, & good for you, you sound very willing & committed. From your experiences w/the subject it will be an asset to the site to read your posts & progress. Keep talking w/us we're listening.
Take care of you.
April (not a gambler)
I am a wife of a gambler! Awesome that you are getting support! My husband is on a journey through hell with his gambling in stocks and casinos. Its at the point were we have lost almost everything. My husband and I have a great family beautiful kids but he's put so much pain and suffering into our lives because of his compulsive behavior. Gambling is serious. Get help and make sure you put someone in charge of the finances or you may lose everything you own or even be in jail one day because of it! My husband has stolen money gone to jail and lost his families respect over this illness so do not procrastinate do not trust yourself from this day forward put someone else in charge of the money or sadly your life may end up a living hell! God bless