Kevin came from a pretty poor family, had dyslexia and left school in his mid-teens. He drifted into gambling with an older friend in a rooming house. It was exciting to gamble and allowed him to escape from reality. At first it was horse racing but eventually Kevin fell for the pokies and that’s when it started to really impact his life.  A trip to hospital related to stress exposed his debts and he sought help from Gamblers Anonymous but it was really just to please his wife.

After a few years of occasional abstinence, not taking GA too seriously, he did more damage in 10 months on the pokies than he had done in the previous 30 years.  Kevin went back to GA and decided to get serious and do the 12 steps and really get recovery. He got a sponsor, got honest, changed his values and built a contented life without needing to gamble.

If you’re having trouble with gambling, or have a friend or family member that does, then maybe Gamblers Anonymous could help – phone (03) 9696 6108 or visit their website gaaustralia.org.au for information and to see a list of local meetings.

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