*This campaign does not offer support services. If you are seeking support please view services here or phone the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 or Gambler's Help Hotline on 1800 858 858*
David
Dad

I worked in the public service. I had a good job and I was popular. I would drink every night. I would gamble and I would empty my bank account and start again next fortnight. I thought everyone did it. I guess I got that wrong.
One day I was called in by my manager and they said I was going to have to talk about money that had been leaving the business account. I had been stealing from work accounts I couldn’t even say for how long, but I felt so ashamed. I tried going to therapy and for a while nothing worked but I found the right counsellor and we started talking and I realised the drinking and gambling wasn’t the problem.
The problem was inside me.
The problem was inside me but so was the solution. That was a revelation.
Now I use meditation and mindfulness and I have regular talks with my therapist who I trust. It took a while for that to happen. I’ve learnt to be more careful with who I have in my life, I guess that’s been one of the biggest changes. I have choices now. Before it was just drink, gamble, repeat.