[Nicoleb86]

Hello,

I have been gambling for a year. I have blown $5000 just this past month. I am a student. I am 30K in debt, every little bit of money that comes in i put down the machine. I can not stop. The whole day that money is due to come in i sit there anxiously checking my account, waiting for the money to come in unable to do the other important work i need to do. I have read on here that others suggest giving others control of your money so you can not withdraw cash for gambling. I do not have anyone i can ask, or that i want to tell of my problem. Do you think it would be an idea to throw away all my bank cards. If i need cash, go into a branch and ask for cash. This would make it hard to gamble, as the atm machine in a club i need a card.

Nicole

[velvet]

Hello Nicole and thanks for starting a thread in the Gambling Therapy forums

Here at Gambling Therapy we pride ourselves on being a caring and diverse online community who can help and support you with the difficulties you’re currently facing. We understand that this might be a tough time for you, particularly if you’re new to recovery, so come here as often as you need to and participate in the forums, access online groups and connect to the live advice helpline if you need one to one support. We’re in this together!

Here on the forum you can share your experiences in a safe, supportive and accepting environment. The beauty of writing it all down is that you can take your time and you will be creating a record of your progress that you can look back on if it ever feels like you’re not moving forward. So, share as much or as little as you like but do try to stick to keeping just one thread in this forum so people know where to find you if they want to be updated on your progress or share something with you.

As well as the forums New Members are invited to join Charles in the New Members Practical Advice Group On Mondays at 21:00 (UK) and Thursday at 19:00(UK)

And on that note….

I’m going to hand you over to our community because I’m sure they will have some words of wisdom for you 🙂

Take care

The Gambling Therapy Team

PS: Let me just remind you to take a look at our privacy policy and terms and conditions so you know how it all works!

[alice]

Hey Nicole

Well done on finding this forum and reaching out. Cutting up cards sounds like it may be a way to help but I fear it won’t stop you gambling completely as you will still have access to cash. I know you said there isn’t anyone you want to tell of your problem but maybe think about finding just one person you can trust. Being accountable can be a huge help. Stay on heee though and keep talking.

[finding_laura]

Hi Nicole and Welcome to the Forum 🙂 Most of us come here when we find our selves unable to stop!

Cutting up your cards can be a step or a piece of a plan to address gambling addiction. But by itself I’m afraid it won’t have much success. We usually plan around it or end up ordering a new card.

Beating this addiction takes a whole lot of commitment and support. As a student do you have access to counseling? I would say finding support is a big part of beating this. Accountability is another. Cutting up bank cards can be a start, but it is best to have someone handle your money for the first while. Monitoring your bank accounts even if not directly doling you out funds. What about a support group like gamblers anonymous or a church group? Continue to use this site’s supports. All of these things add up to help beat this addiction. As you say, we can’t stop! It takes drastic measures but it is worth the embarrassment of telling one or two TRUSTED persons that we need help. Please take care,
Laura

[Author]

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