Gambling Addiction & Recovery Support Group
Compulsive gambling is an urge or addiction to gamble despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop. A preferred term among many professionals is problem gambling, as few people described by the term experience true compulsions in the clinical sense of the word. Problem gambling often is defined by whether harm is experienced by the gambler or others rather...
Yesterday i went to a gambling counselor. It was the most difficult thing for me to do but I did it. I have never needed counseling in my life. Its paid for by the casinos, imagine that but atleast I'm finally getting something back from them that will hopefully be beneficial. They suggested I go to a GA meeting. They have a closed one close to my house. If anyone has anything to share about GA meetings I would really appreciate it.
When I first self-banned, I didn't know what I was getting into. I thought I would just sign the form and BOOM, that was that. Door closed, on with my life.
Unfortunately, that was only the beginning. There were times I thought I was going to crawl out of my skin from the boredom and the agitation. It truly is an addiction, and you need to detox.
As for GA meetings, the most important thing is to be bold. They can be uncomfortable experiences at first. Just remember that everyone is in the same position as you and not judging you. Just remember that everyone benefits from you openly sharing your story and being frank about your vulnerabilities. Just remember that you get from GA what you put into it. If you are willing to put yourself out there, you will attract friends and supporters. And if you're hiding in the back, you won't get as much from it.
Hope this helps.
I had to do many things to get myself stopped from gambling. I could not depend on just one or a few things. You have nothing to loose by going to GA and many things to gain.
It's usually recommended that you try a variety of kinds of meetings for 2-3 months before you decide it's not for you.