Hang in there and welcome Heidigue!
It is the simplest, yet most difficult thing to stop- just don't gamble and each day gets easier. Any time you get the urge to go out, think of why you needed to stop. Log on here and read through the many posts and reach out for help or advice when you get that feeling.
There are many tremendous and wonderful folks here on the board, all willing to help and all working toward the same goal.
You are not alone.
Jay

I sure wish their were a "Like" button on this board because I would be hitting it all of the time....the best support you will ever find is right here.

I wish I could say their was a magic bullet Heidigue but I know the truth is is that their is no quick fix...to get through it we have to go through it. I have always reminded myself to play the tape all the way through. It begins with going to the casino...playing the slots...losing/win/lose...chase..chase..and broke. Now picture yourself leaving the casino and remember how you felt. Anyone who has ever lost a significant amount of money will never forget how bad it felt to leave the casino knowing that our money is gone and we are broke. I know I have spent many nights worrying about where the money will come from to make up for my losses.

Hang in there...really this is the best place for you to be...so many strong people to support you. Also many people who are here to show us that it absolutely can be done. Don't ever give up..no matter what. ((Take Care))..

Jabot

Welcome! You came to the right place. Remember to take it one day at a time. You can do it!

Hi Heidi
Welcome to DS!! These folks here have been my life lines thru this whole journey. It has been an up and down road to get this far out (198 days so far), but I know I'm doing the right thing.
Your finances will get better. Stress will always be in our lives, but after we quit gambling, stress is easier to handle. In my experience, I feel like I can hold my head up higher these days, knowing I'm kicking gambling to the curb!
Keep coming here, because these people here are awesome!!
Just tell yourself, "Just for today, I will not gamble!!"
Hugs
Lisa

Welcome H, 5 days is amazing! I know exactly what you mean. I loved the "high" I got when I was gambling. Trouble is, it has an equivalent "low". Because you have the high, when you crash, it is even more jarring. And it happens every time. Because we are Compulsive Gamblers we have lost the ability to walk away.
You are correct about the escapist factor. Gambling it effective for that. The problem is, whatever you were trying to escape has went nowhere, unlike your money...which has vanished.
5 days is so great. Don't throw it away. Like Jabot said think it through. You know the outcome? Don't you?
Speaking for myself (which is all I can do) It is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I would suggest finding a GA (gamblers Anonymous) meeting. You will meet people just like yourself, and you will be able to hear things that will help you. Plus, it will take up time. Sometimes you literally have to sit on your hands. But if you go back, it will be back to day one. And, if not now, when? Keep coming back, hugs ~atticus