Hey everyone,
Let’s get real for a moment: when did you realize you really messed up with gambling? What was your rock bottom moment that made you think, “I can’t keep doing this”?
For me, it was losing over $100,000, including my entire 401(k), through stock options trading on WallStreetBets. I lost my job, my marriage fell apart, and I hit rock bottom hard. That’s when I knew things had to change. Reaching out to 1-800-GAMBLER and getting professional help turned my life around.
Share your stories. Let’s talk about those moments of clarity when we knew we had to stop. It’s tough, but we’re all here to support each other.
Looking forward to hearing your stories and how you’re working to turn things around.
Today’s a new day,
Jane
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Your post really got to me. My rock bottom moment was a bit bizarre and absolutely devastating. I was heavily into sports betting and believed I had a foolproof system. One night, I bet everything I had my savings, rent money, and even a loan I took out on my car on a “sure thing.” The game ended up going into overtime and I lost everything. EVERYTHING!
But that wasn’t the worst part. In a desperate attempt to recover my losses, I decided to pawn my grandmother’s heirloom jewelry. The sentimental value alone was priceless, but I was too blinded by my addiction to see it. When I lost that money too, the reality hit me hard. I had literally gambled away my family’s legacy.
I was so ashamed that I didn’t know how to face my family. I avoided them, stopped answering calls, and practically went into hiding. One night, I ended up at a rundown motel, contemplating my life choices. It felt like I was living someone else’s nightmare.
I didn’t have the courage to call a hotline, but I stumbled upon an online support group where people were sharing their stories. I started anonymously, just reading, and eventually worked up the courage to share my own story. The empathy and advice I received from complete strangers was the first step in my journey to recovery.
Now, I’m working with a therapist and attending group sessions. It’s still a long road ahead, but I’m slowly piecing my life back together. Sharing my story here is another step in my healing process.
Thanks for opening up this conversation, Jane. It’s good to know we’re all in this together.
Looking forward to hearing other stories.
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Wow that’s an incredible journey. Would you mind sharing what group you were a part of before? Maybe others would find that helpful as well. I know we’re just getting started here, so it’s a little sparse at the moment.
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