Thank you for reading my post. I am ready to take control of my addiction and finally stop gambling! Over the past few months I have a had several trips to the casino where I have lost several thousand dollars. Since I think being honest about my problem is important I will say I probably have lost around 40K in about 8 or 9 years. My last trip cost me over 5k and I realized I need to stop, now. I know I have a problem and need to fix it and get on the right track. For reference I am 29 years old. I know it is just money and I will earn it back, but this trip being fresh in my mind has me really down.
I find myself gambling, mostly blackjack, for hours and hours and never being able to walk away. I see that even if I win I won't be satisfied and most of the time gamble to my last dollar for the trip. I do have a saving account and always pay my bills. The savings account of course could be a lot bigger had I not gambled. I have never done anything besides use my own money to gamble.
I grew up and am in general very financially responsible. But when it comes to gambling I lose control. A combination of the excitement and usually alcohol lead to the problem. It doesn't seem like real money and I lose control. I'll make continuous trips to the ATM, etc. The person I am when I gamble isn't me.
I have gone months without gambling before, but this time want to stop it for good and am looking for accountability. I am looking into ways to limit my access to money and counselors and therapists in my area. This forum is very refreshing to read and to know that others are going through the same struggle as well. I am ready to move forward and put this in the rear view mirror. Thank you for your time and any advice or tips you have would be very useful!