Telling the parents, and thanks.

lovely-cup-of-tea

Good luck Ross. This is such a supportive place and there are clearly a few folks who know exactly what you're going through. You've already been brave enough to admit to yourself that you have a problem but have also stepped up to the mark by knowing that it's now up to you to get yourself out of debt. I hope that you find a way to deal with the gambling too. We'll be thinking of you.

50p

Told the mother and step father tonight, was without a doubt the hardest thing I've ever had to do. They obviously weren't pleased, but were more supportive than I could have ever hoped for.

The next three hardest things are (and will be for the rest of my days)...

-Stop drinking
-Stop gambling
-Budget

and I hope to add 'save' in there as a 4th must when I finally become debt free. Still a long way to go, and a lot of work to be done, but for the first time in years I don't feel quite as alone.

Sorry for the lack of detailed reply. It's been a long day, a lot of tears (probably more to come) and I feel very drained so its bed shortly. Thanks again to everyone on here. There were times today when I wasn't sure if I could make the call, but reading all your replies told me it was the right thing to do.

Tustastic

Well done 50p and sleep well tonight.

Beerworshipper

Hey 50p,

I'm going to keep this short in the hope of catching you before you go to sleep.

A very big well done to you, I can only imagine what it was like (as I've not had to cross that bridge yet) but take heart from what other people have stated in other posts, they say it ranks as one of the hardest things you'll ever have to do. But on the flip side it should get easier from here on in.

Once again fella, a very big well done.....

Now get some well earned sleep, you really really really deserve it, and if you're ever in need of support or a pick me up then this is the place to come. There really are some people in here with massive hearts.

:A :T :j

50p

Thanks both.:T

[Deleted User]

Morning 50p,

Hope that you had a well earned and restful sleep last night and ready to take your new life fully by both hands.

Well done on telling your parents, I know it must have been hard but you did the right thing.

I will be reading your diary with interest, so please keep posting.

Tea
x

sammiboo

Hello there 50p

Well done facing your problems and admit something needs to be done, as everyone has said that is the hardest thing.

If I am honest I dont understand gambling addiction, I think thats because I cant relate to it. I havent ever gambled (properly - online betting etc) and i dont think i know anyone that does. But if you feel the urge to get online and for a bet then try and post on here instead

When was the last time you gambled?

Anyway, good luck with it all and you have lots of support from us lot :grouphug:

In_Search_Of_Me

well dne for fessing up. I really hope that you can stay off the gambling & move forward...keep us posted.

tealady

Hello and welcome. Just remember as many on this forum have said before "baby steps". There wont be an instant fix, nor a quick one but just remember every time you have to climb an obstacle on your path just hold your hand out and someone will soon be here from MSE for you.
Good luck.

50p

Hello all! Long time no speak, I've kind of avoiding these forums for a bit as the bargain forums are a bit too tempting for my liking, plus I've had other things on my mind!

Firstly many thanks to those who offered support in my time of need, but I feel that I owe you kind ladies and gents a better explanation regarding what happened and my current financial state.....

When I came clean to the parents I was firstly after their support, and secondly a few pennies they had stashed away in my name, around £700. That would have been enough for me to deal with day to day expenses and enter into my CCCS agreement, while hopefully getting the moral support from the family that I required.

To cut a (very) long story short, they wanted to pay my debts off, and we all agreed I would pay back the same as if I was going with my CCCS plan. They were more supportive than I could have imagined. Obviously upset, but at the same time being nicer, and more supportive than I could have ever hoped for. I told the father (not step-father) the following week, and his reaction was much the same. Shocked, but very supportive. It was a truly humbling experience for me, and above all I wished I hadn’t hidden my money problems from them for so long.

So, it's now May 2008 and how have I been doing?

Firstly I've been paying the parents religiously. I truly appreciate what they have done for me and feel it's only fair I stick to the arranged plan, although they have said in times of need they would accept less of a monthly payment. I've even managed to pay them a few 100 more than agreed so if I do have a tough month, they won't be out of pocket.

I've had a few drinks, but not gambled since November 2007. As you may remember, or read, my problem stemmed from getting to drunk and gambling daft amounts online. I honestly feel I couldn't gamble online again, but have been taking the old "going out and having a few beers" lightly to ensure this doesn't happen.

Above all, I feel I have my family back. I cannot stress how important this is. I’d gladly be twice as much in debt but have the support from my family, than attempt to struggle on alone. I do feel they offered me with an ‘easy way out’, which is why I’ve been trying my best to pay over and above what was agreed.

I really do want to thank you all for your support. Even if you didn’t comment on my situation directly, I feel reading other peoples problems (and solutions) gave me the courage to face up to my demons and speak to my family. Thank you to Martin, those who run the board, and everyone who contributes.

I’m doing well. Life has had its ups and downs, but financially wise I’ve been doing ok, and I honestly feel I have you lot to thank. For anyone who is in a similar position, please tell your family. I can’t stress how important it was for me, my gambling, and my money situation in general. Perhaps I was lucky enough to get an ‘easier' solution, but regardless the support of my family is key, and I certainly couldn’t have done it without them....and you lot too. Thanks again, you are all stars!