Managing gambling addiction

Here's the story of a first direct customer's gambling addiction and the steps he took to get help. Be aware, this article discusses themes of gambling, addiction and suicide. If you need support please contact the Samaritans.

Oliver's story

"Just one more bet"

 

I’m Oliver. A 45-year old web developer and dad of two from Sheffield. I'm husband to my wife Jenny and a keen Huddersfield Town fan. I’m also a compulsive gambler - now in recovery. My last bet was one year ago. If I'm honest, gambling took over my life for over a decade, but now for the first time in a long time I’m back in control. I’m sharing my experience to show that help is out there if you want it. Here is my reality and how I've learnt to manage the addiction. 

"I was always due a win"

It all started when I got my first job and pay packet. Friday nights became nights at the local pub with my work mates. Drinking alcohol was a key part of the weekly routine and I quickly got hooked on the fruit machines. A ‘£20 pint’ for me was buying a drink, getting change, feeding the machine and leaving with nothing. I quickly went from having a play on the slots each week to not being able to say no to 'one more bet'. 

 

This escalated and I soon moved from gambling in pubs to going to the bookies. I was already a huge sports fan, so I placed bets on anything I could – be it football, horses, rugby or cricket. It didn't matter what it was so long as there was a chance to win some money.

 

Over time, gambling became second-nature to me. It got even worse when I started betting on my phone. I could put bets on now without leaving the sofa. Slowly I began to realise something was wrong, I’d hide my bank statements, boast about my wins to my mates and never mention my losses to Jenny. Before I knew it, I was applying for credit cards and loans to push for that one ‘big win’. Looking back, I was in denial telling myself ‘I just need one good win to recover everything’. 

Getting support

The debt and pressure started to build at a rapid pace and eventually it got so bad I felt there was no way out. It was putting huge pressure on my relationships with my family and friends too. Even then, if you asked me whether I had a gambling problem, I’d have said no. But it got so overwhelming eventually I decided to open up to my parents. Whilst at the time this was the worst day of my life, ultimately it’s what saved me. They helped me to admit to myself and Jenny that I had a problem I couldn't manage alone and needed help.

 

Taking steps

 

I got support from a few different sources which really helped. My parents initially, then external help from charities. Reaching out to first direct also really helped, allowing me to set up blocks and controls so I couldn’t gamble so freely.

 

I contacted the bank to put safeguards in place. The agent listened and we discussed helpful tips such as how I could set controls. The call really helped as now my gambling transactions are blocked, I have a cash machine withdrawal limit and I have to speak to the bank if I want to borrow money.

This is a true story of lived experiences. To respect the privacy of those involved and maintain anonymity, all names, places, and specific identifying details of individuals have been changed.

Getting support

If Oliver's story resonates with you, or someone you know, consider taking these steps or contacting the following trusted organisations to start your recovery journey.

Support from first direct

Below are some guides and resources which might be a good starting point if you're struggling:

External support

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) - attend weekly meetings to share, listen and stay accountable.

Gambling blocking software – GamBan or BetBlocker are self-exclusion apps that permanently block online gambling.

You can also request exclusion from local bookmakers and casinos. 

NHS support

You can begin recovery in many different ways. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to family and friends, you could consider speaking to your GP.

Help for problems with gambling - NHS

Useful links

Mental Health and Support

We understand that life has its ups and downs. If you're struggling to manage your money due to mental health issues, we're here to help.
View mental health support

Budgeting and money management

By being aware of your spending and saving habits, you can start to have more confidence in your financial decisions and create a more positive relationship with your money. 
Access budgeting support

Managing someone else's money

Sometimes people need help managing their money. This could be because of a health condition, or because they need support with their spending.
Get money management advice