Linda's story

Hi there, I am 28 years old, I have been gambling on online sports for one full year. I started as a little bit of fun and then as I started to lose a lot of money, I have started to feel the addiction. I have always had an addictive personality when it came down to gambling but never got into it before.

Since gambling I have had to hide it from my boyfriend who has been having his suspicions for a while now as he can see the changes in me – I am secretive and just not myself. I am not as fun anymore and even my friends keep asking me if I am ok. I used to be the life of the party and now I am much more quiet because all I keep thinking about is how to win my money back.

I feel if I don’t stop, I will lose my boyfriend and my friends as well as become poor. I feel like I can’t focus at work and can’t be as good at my job as I should be. This is the worst place emotionally that I have ever been in.

I really need help but I just can’t bring myself to tell anyone as I am so embarrassed. If anyone is reading this, please don’t gamble as it will ruin your life in all aspects.