Robert shares his story of developing a gambling habit through underage gambling on poker machines with sports club teammates between training sessions. A country kid with a happy homelife growing up and a talent for sports, he had no family background in gambling or other addictions. Gambling consolidated in his late teens and by his early twenties Robert realized that he had a gambling problem, expanding to horses as well and finding it harder to hide so he began isolating while gambling.
Robert sought help from Gamblers Anonymous early on but was only there for others, not himself. He eventually got serious with GA but found it difficult initially to stay stopped. Robert had a long period of abstinence from gambling but drifted away from GA and spent some years gambling before it became untenable again. Back to GA with enthusiasm and now he has had over 280 days without gambling.
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.
If you are a partner, family member or friend of someone with a gambling problem you may find the help you need with a GAM-ANON group. The GA website has a link to their website and contact details: gaaustralia.org.au/gam-anon
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Music played in this episode was provided by the artists, via Australian Music Radio Airplay Project (https://amrap.org.au/):
The Living Free Crew
