Addiction is a terrible thing and it’s only recently that people have started to realise that gambling a real addiction. Gambling has always been accepted as a normal part of every day life and is seen as socially acceptable. All day on the radio, television, new papers and social media you see and hear adverts for new gambling sites that are offering these fantastic sign up deals. What you do not hear are the stories of people spiralling into debt, losing their homes, jobs and families and even committing suicide. Gambling is still massively glorified and I personally feel it needs to be stopped and treated as seriously as alcohol and drug addiction. As you may have guessed I have been affected by a serious gambling problem and I want to share my story with you, in the hope that I can help someone who is also struggling with an addiction or has a loved one who is struggling with an addiction.
For the past 10 years I have been in a relationship with a chronic gambler, we have had extreme highs and lows it is only now that he has finally accepted help from councillors and admitted how serious his problem has got that I now feel confident to speak up and let people know that they are not alone. I know we have a seriously long way to go but we are finally for the first time ever making a step in the right direction.
Did you know that apparently only 5% of compulsive gamblers actually seek some form of help. This means that 95% end up having their lives ruined by debt and depression. Even if I can help increase the percentage slightly I would feel like I have done something to help.
Static’s taken from https://providenceproject.org/gambling-rehab/gambling-facts/
Helpful Website https://www.begambleaware.org
The Secret Life of A Gamblers Wife 