I don’t know if my words well help in any way. I have been gambling too for about 6 years now. And like your son i have auto excluded myself, just started therapy and have passed my finances over to a family member. For me it is early days. I feel it’s impossible to stop gambling even though I read stories about being possible. I owe money to everyone and everywhere it will take me years to pay it all back. I have hurt and lied to my family so many times now that I know I am losing them. I know it’s my fault. My partner doesnt know anything about this. Like your son i have promise my family some many things so many times. It has come to a point where I have spent money for the bills to gamble. It’s such a bad addiction that me for example cannot control disappointing my family. It’s so hard I imagine being addicted to drugs is just the same. The rush, the lying, using money up, the irritating when can’t play. I know I am hurting my family. And I am trying to do all the right moves for recovery but deep down I am not very optimistic about it. I can’t talk for your son nor do I pretend to but having family near is the most important thing for me. He sounds lucky to have a nice supportive mum. It takes time. And a lot of support. I am in this road alone atm. Good luck and letting your son know you are there for him is very helpful even though it doesn’t show. This addiction is the worse thing that has happened in my life. I wish I could turn back time. And no, it isn’t your fault. I started gambling when I went down with depression. Maybe your son has a reason also. I feel identified with your son. And if my sister had to write something about me it probably would be something similar to your post. Never give up.
