The Effects Of Problem Gambling On Your Family
Whether you have just discovered a gambling problem or have been living with it for a while, you may feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the problems. You may feel responsible.
You may be heartbroken by your spouse's/partner's betrayal and financial devastation. It is difficult to accept that what started out as a recreational activity has turned into a personal family nightmare.
Questions you may be asking yourself:
- "How could my spouse/partner do this to me? our family? our future?"
- "How am I going to put my life back together?"
- "How am I going to pay the bills?"
- "How could I have believed all those lies?"
- "How can I ever trust this person again?"
- "How can I love this person ever again?"
- "Who should I talk to about this?"
You may have feelings of anger, frustration, resentment, isolation and desperation. You may also feel like your life and all your thoughts are consumed by the problems you are facing. You may feel you need to separate from your partner at least for a period of time. Thoughts and feelings of this nature are common when first addressing the complex issues that arise as a result of a gambling problem.
Take the time you need to sort through these feelings. Change is made in small steps - every small step is progress toward making things better.
It is important that you look after yourself. Find the help and support you need. Make sure you are not taking on more than you can handle. Discuss your feelings. Talking about your anger, resentment and feelings of betrayal are necessary for you to be able to look after yourself and your family.
If now is not the time, ask yourself: How much worse will it have to get before you are willing to act? We can help.
Call us.