Ray's story

My name is Ray and I’m 54 years old. I hope my story is helpful as I will explain it as real as I can.

For more years than I can remember, I have always enjoyed a punt on the horses. It’s been there through girlfriends, breakups, marriage, kids. Odd how the very thing I’ve enjoyed is also the reason behind my mood swings, anxiety and most of all lashings of guilt.

My gambling heightened when iPhones and gambling apps appeared and corporate bookmakers started advertising. 'Cool' I thought no more smelly TAB for me and how convenient!!! In hindsight ... it’s way too tempting for the problem gambler, funds can be transferred in seconds and before you know it you can be thousands in debt, credit limits maxed out, accessing home redraws to pay off credit cards and so forth to the viscous cycle of pain.

I personally have lost around $500,000 over this period. With one day alone well over $100,000 ... the same day I took my eldest daughter away for a shopping trip. She wondered why I wasn’t myself! I felt pathetic and disgusted.

Strangely, I was always a careful person with money paid my mortgage, kids schooling etc. However, the overpowering need to chase your losses and restore your bank account takes precedence.

To all the younger people that may read my story please don’t let this disease take over your life. The wins won’t out do the losses. 

I've cancelled all of my betting accounts and access to funds. I guess no matter how old you are you can always change.