I’m literally at my breaking point… been trying to quit betting for months now, but it’s like I’m trapped in this never-ending cycle. Every time I think I’ve finally got it under control, something sets me off and I’m right back at it. I feel like I’m losing myself in all this - the anxiety, the shame, the constant lying to my family and friends… it’s exhausting. I’ve maxed out my credit cards, lost count of the sleepless nights… I just feel so stuck. Has anyone else been here? How did you find the strength to keep going and eventually break free? I’m hanging on by a thread here and I desperately need some hope and guidance.
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Hey there, @Ash988 I totally get it. I’ve been in your shoes and it’s a brutal place to be. First of all, let me tell you that you’re not alone - I’ve been there too, and so have many others on this forum. It takes a lot of courage to admit you need help, so kudos to you for reaching out.
For me, the turning point came when I realized that I needed support beyond just online forums. That’s when I called the 1-800-Gambler hotline (1-800-522-4700). They connected me with a local therapist who offered free in-person individual therapy sessions - which would have cost me thousands in insurance premiums! Those sessions were a game-changer. I was able to work through my underlying issues and develop coping strategies that really helped me get my betting under control.
I also started attending local Gamblers Anonymous (GA) meetings. Being in a room with people who understood exactly what I was going through was incredibly powerful. We shared our stories, supported each other, and worked through the 12-step program together. It was a safe space to be honest and vulnerable, and it really helped me stay accountable.
GA also offered a framework for understanding my addiction and working through it. I learned about triggers, relapse prevention, and self-care. And most importantly, I learned that I wasn’t alone - that there were people who cared about me and wanted to help.
I know it’s tough to take that first step, but I promise you - it’s worth it. The 1-800-Gambler hotline and GA meetings were instrumental in my recovery. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. You got this!
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Try checking your bank account every day. I had to force myself to look at it this morning, made me sick to my stomach. Never want to gamble again.
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thanks, it makes me feel a little bit better to read things like this. I’m still jonesing and every little bit helps.
I feel you, seriously. It’s like being stuck in quicksand, right? Just when you think you’re out, you get pulled back in. I’ve been there. The anxiety, the shame, the lying—it’s a brutal cycle. But listen, you’re not alone in this.
First off, give yourself some credit for recognizing the problem and trying to tackle it. That’s huge. Now, let’s talk about getting through this. You gotta take it one day at a time, man. Don’t think about quitting forever, just focus on getting through today without betting.
Find something to distract you when the urge hits—anything that keeps your mind and hands busy. For me, it was running and painting. Whatever works for you, just dive into it.
Talk to someone, anyone. It could be a friend, family member, or even us here. Just get it out. Hiding it only makes it worse. And yeah, maxed out credit cards and sleepless nights suck, but those are things you can fix with time. Right now, focus on you.
You’re stronger than you think. You’ve already made it this far, so keep pushing. We’re all here for you, rooting for you. It’s not easy, but it’s possible. Hang in there and keep fighting.