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.

"Clive's" Story - I Choose my family.

I'm what you would call just an average person; married, kids, mortgage etc. From the outside you would probably not even notice me, let alone think that there are any major problems with me or my family. But to coin a phrase 'looks can be deceiving.' What would be considered a harmless sweep and a win of $38.00 quite possibly started my descent into problem gambling...

An Australian MP bravely writes about her gambling addiction

Relief floods through me as I arrive at the venue. The pleasurable feeling is triggered by a combination of dopamine and opioids in my brain, lighting the well-worn path of the synapses that addiction has created. The bright doorway is enough. Horror and dread dissipate. I have two $50 notes in my wallet, enough pleasure for the evening, and of course I may win. The colours and music that engulf my senses as I enter the venue contrast with the silent patrons, each alone on a stool in front of a poker machine. The aloneness has been increased by grouping machines in circles, facing outwards, instead of rows. Gamblers can't even see each other...

Liam tells his story of how he became a problem gambler at 17 years old.

As a young person, it can be hard to tell when your gambling is getting out of hand. This is the first hand experience of Laim who fell victim to gambling addiction at only 17 years old. Laim's story will show you not only how easy it can be to fall into the trap of problem gambling, but that there is a way out...