Sharelle didn’t really like gambling but she was in an unhappy marriage and had recently lost her mum, and had enjoyed nights accompanying her mum to the pokies.  Sharelle started fairly small stake gambling on the pokies where she felt close to her mum and could forget her found the he turned to the pokies as a way of feeling close to her mum and forget about her marriage. When she was arrested for stealing from her job, Sharelle sought the help through Gamblers Anonymous was able to quit and re-establish a relationship with her family and children.

Allan grew up in a home where he loved the family card nights, which he introduced to his school mates and sought out a career that would enable him to continue gambling. Family and alcohol slowed down his gambling but it eventually won out and gambling impacted every decision he made. It was never about the money but gambling helped him kill his emotional pain. Allan got into Gamblers Anonymous when he was feeling suicidal and now with the help of GA members has every reason to live.

If you’re having trouble with gambling, or has a friend or family member that does, then maybe Gamblers Anonymous could help – phone (03) 9696 6108 or visit their website gaaustralia.org.au.