I’m glad that you have found this place and have had the courage to write your first post. Do start reading the experiences of others and write more about your own, so that we all continue learning together.
You have become aware of the dangers of your gambling and have voiced your concerns here, even if you haven’t talked to anyone else. Sometimes, people with little knowledge of gambling addiction are unable to help much and may be judgemental, so it is wise and safer for you to seek help from those who understand more. No one pretends to be an expert on the specific things that you face, but here we have all seen the effects of gambling – either as people who struggle to live free of its addictive power, as family and friends of gamblers or as professionals with experience of supporting gamblers. Together, we hope to help you live free of gambling too. As you write more about yourself, we can offer more ideas and support that is relevant to you. Your story will also help and encourage others, who come here.
You are young and have become aware – now you can make the changes you truly desire. It will be hard sometimes and you will need perhaps to put barriers in place, so that money is safe and not accessible for gambling. Sometimes it is good to have another trusted person to manage your finances, at least for a while.
There may be local groups where you can find support in ‘real’ time and space (GA) and here there is a live helpline and also groups (see under Support Groups), which you can log into and share in ‘live’.
I wish you well.
Monique