Dear Dorothy,
I’m a 38-year-old woman, and I’ve been struggling with gambling for the past few years. It started as a harmless flutter on the horses, but now it feels like it’s taken over my life. I’ve lost significant amounts of money, borrowed from friends and family, and I’m constantly chasing my losses. I feel trapped and ashamed. My relationships are suffering, and I don’t know how to stop. Please help.
Yours sincerely,
Gina
Dear Gina,
Thank you for your courage in sharing such a deeply personal struggle. Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, can feel like an all-consuming trap, but recognising the problem, as you have done, is a powerful first step towards reclaiming control of your life.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this isn’t just about willpower. Gambling addiction is a complex issue that affects the brain’s reward systems, often making it extremely difficult to break the cycle without support. Please don’t let shame deter you from seeking the help you need and deserve.
Consider involving a trusted friend or family member who can support you as you navigate this journey. It may also be helpful to set up financial safeguards, such as giving a trusted person control over your accounts or limiting your access to funds, to reduce the temptation to gamble.
Your relationships may have taken a hit, but honest conversations about your commitment to change can pave the way to healing. Rebuilding trust takes time, but every small step forward counts.
Finally, be kind to yourself. Recovery is a process, often with ups and downs. Celebrate the small victories, even if they seem insignificant, and remember that every day without gambling is a triumph.
You are not alone, and with the right help and determination, a brighter, more stable future is absolutely within reach.
Warm regards,
Dorothy