The Personal Stories of People Who Have Overcome Gambling Problems:

On this page you will find links to the courageous, real-life stories of people from the Central Coast who have faced, challanged and overcome their gambling problems.

Reading about other people's experiences shows us that we are not alone. Stories provide education, support, and reassurance; can help people understand and reflect on their own life journey; and most of all provide hope.

If you would like to share your story, please contact us.

We are deeply grateful to the clients who have shared their stories here. Thank you.

A courageous journey of insight and self discovery - Graham's story

I am 46 years old and I'm a compulsive gambler. I first started gambling at the age of 17, not long after I started working. I used to bet on the horses at the TAB, and I remember that I had a few good wins in the early days. This allowed me to escape from my mundane job and an unhappy life. At 19 I was goaled for 9 months for committing false pretences. I changed the balances in a couple of my bank books and drew out money that wasn't in there, I also stole on one occasion from a youth group, these offences happened after I had gambled and lost my money...

Matt's story - one man's road back from ruin

POKER machines are a major social evil, a reformed Central Coast gambling addict said. They cost him relationships, hundreds of thousands of dollars in assets and, possibly, a stroke caused by financial stress. Matt, a father of two from Toukley, said his addiction took over his life at 18 as he poured all of his earnings as a brick layer into poker machines...

Cheryl's story - hopelessly hooked on love and respect:

Hello, my name is Cheryl, I am 51 years old with 3 children, 2 of which are teenagers and still live at home. My eldest lives with her partner with my 4 lovely grandchildren. I have mentioned my family because my family are very important to me. You see I have had a very serious gambling and alcohol problem, which has worsened over the last 10 years. It came to head for me a year ago when I sought the help of a gambling counselling service.