At just 24 years old, I’m facing the wreckage of my life. For the past four years, I’ve been gambling, starting when I was 20. During that time, I’ve lost over $100,000—money I’ll never get back. I’m sharing my story in hopes that it might help someone who’s in the same situation I was, or still am.

The Illusion of Winning: The Start of My Addiction

In the beginning, everything seemed like a win. I had some lucky streaks early on, including a $14,000 win on Stake Plinko two years ago. It felt like the greatest victory of my life at the time, and I convinced myself I could turn gambling into a career. But, as is often the case, the high didn’t last forever, and the inevitable crash followed.

The Descent: Losing It All

Just three days ago, I won $16,000, feeling on top of the world. However, instead of stopping, I kept chasing the next win, thinking I could keep the momentum going. Within 24 hours, I lost everything. The cycle repeated itself. Chasing that rush of winning became my addiction.

The losses didn’t stop there. I maxed out all available debt—my line of credit hit $10,000, and my overdraft is now at -$5,000. I gambled away my paycheck in less than an hour. Desperate to make up for it, I liquidated all my stocks and crypto, telling myself it would be different next time. Unfortunately, I was wrong.

The Struggle: Gambling’s Hold on My Mind

The worst part is that gambling follows me wherever I go. It doesn’t stay at the casino or on betting websites—it haunts me. I dream about slots and plinko balls, and it’s not just an addiction; it’s an obsession. The thoughts keep me awake, and even in the middle of the night, I find myself yearning for that win that will solve everything.

Trapped in this cycle, I don’t see a way out. The financial ruin is overwhelming, and it feels impossible to imagine a future where I can rebuild.

The Despair: A Cry for Help

I won’t sugarcoat it—I’ve hit rock bottom. There have been many days when I wondered if life was worth living. I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. Gambling addiction can take control of your life, but I’ve come to realize that it doesn’t have to be the end.

Turning the Page: Taking the First Step Toward Recovery

I’m at a turning point. I know I can’t keep going down this path, even though the temptation is still there. Seeking help is difficult, but I know I need to stop gambling. This isn’t just for me—it’s for anyone else struggling with the same battle.

If my story resonates with you, don’t wait until it’s too late. Gambling addiction is a mental illness, and reaching out for help is the first step. There are support groups, hotlines, and professional help available to guide you through recovery. Though it’s a difficult journey, healing is possible.

To anyone out there feeling the same despair I once did—there is hope. You don’t have to face this alone.