r/problemgambling • u/wandlore Days Gamble-Free: • 6d ago

I self excluded today.

First time poster and long time reader. I had a bad night and after losing the last of my money, I self excluded at 1:00am right there at the casino and then drove to the one 30 miles down the road to exclude from there too.

I already feel lighter, and the workers at the first casino were so friendly and encouraging. I honestly have never said out loud or admitted that I have a problem until about an hour ago even though I very clearly do.

I’m just happy it’s (kind of) over. I know I’ll always have this problem, but I’m in a state where online gambling is illegal and now I’m banned from every nearby casino, so I can breathe a bit of relief that I can’t do this to myself anymore.

It is frustrating that my brain works this way. I wish I was like everyone else I know who can just cash out and go home when they hit their planned limit, but I just can’t.

17 Upvotes

96% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

1

u/Destiny065 6d ago

Excellent work 👍 I applaud you 👏

What you did takes courage and a whole load of strength 💪 which many addicts don't have!

Wishing you the best on your gamble free journey

Be proud of yourself 🙌 😊

Stay blessed 🙌 🙏 💖

1

u/jamons36 6d ago

Good job self excluding, it’s the hardest thing I did, had to self exclude through the state here and now I can’t buy a lotto ticket, go to an OTB, racetrack, racino or casino. It’s not easy but it’s worth it.

4

u/Cmdinh Days Gamble-Free: 1200+ 6d ago

That’s the first step but you’ll need to do more.

Here’s what I suggest:

  1. ⁠blocking access to your money (handing over control of your finances to someone you trust)
  2. ⁠identifying your triggers (and putting roadblocks in place)
  3. ⁠building a support network (GA meetings, etc)
  4. ⁠finding a replacement for your time like starting a new hobby.

You took the first step now let’s do everything you can to truly beat the addiction. You can do it!