Dec 8, 2024 marks a monumental milestone in my life—six whole years of gambling abstinence! I can hardly believe how far I’ve come since I decided to take control of my life. What once seemed like an impossible dream is now my reality, and I couldn’t be more proud. This journey hasn’t been easy, but every single day has been worth it. Six years is more than just a number; it’s a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of making positive changes. I’m grateful for this second chance and excited to celebrate this achievement in a way that honors the hard work it took to get here.

In 2014, after being hospitalized for a bipolar episode, I promised myself I would do whatever it took to avoid going back. I began exploring new hobbies beyond my love for reading but initially wasn’t ready to give up drinking or gambling.

Regular visits with my psychiatrist, Dr. Bailey, became a cornerstone of my journey. His consistent inquiries about my drinking led me to challenge myself to quit alcohol, a challenge I eventually won. Encouraged by this success, I admitted my gambling habit to him. Dr. Bailey’s words stayed with me, especially when he said I was “hiding in a closet” and encouraged me to step into the light. His belief in my potential inspired me to seek change. While I tried various strategies to quit gambling, staying consistent proved difficult.

That’s when I turned to Gambling Anonymous. The weekly meetings offered the structure, accountability, and sense of community I needed to stay focused. Combined with the unwavering support of my husband and daughter, I gradually found the strength to overcome gambling and reclaim my life for good.

One of the biggest challenges was breaking free from the cycles of shame and secrecy. Gambling felt like an escape, but it always left me feeling worse. Over time, I realized that the temporary relief wasn’t worth the long-term pain it caused. There were moments when the urge to gamble was overwhelming, but I learned to pause, reflect, and remind myself of my goals and how far I’d come.

Quitting gambling didn’t just save me financially; it also brought peace back into my life. Before, the constant stress of losing money and hiding my struggles created a strain on everything—my relationships, my mental health, and even my ability to enjoy the simple moments. Today, I can plan for the future with confidence, enjoy vacations without guilt, and prioritize the things that truly matter.

Emotionally, I feel more grounded and in control of my decisions. The shame and secrecy that once weighed me down have been replaced by pride in my accomplishments. My relationships, especially with my husband and daughter, have flourished. Their unwavering support reminded me that I was never alone in this fight.

This anniversary isn’t just about looking back—it’s also about looking forward. Each year that passes strengthens my resolve and affirms the incredible changes I’ve made. It’s a moment to celebrate not only the absence of gambling but also the presence of joy, stability, and hope in my life.

On the night of Dec 8, 2024, I’ll be honoring this special milestone with a cozy and meaningful celebration—a hot pot dinner at home with my family. To make the evening extra special, we’re decorating the dining area with sparkling candles and using a brand-new set of bowls, plates, and cutlery. On the menu are some unique foods we seldom or never include in a hot pot, adding an element of excitement and novelty to the occasion.

Celebrating at home, surrounded by my husband and daughter—the people who matter most—feels perfectly fitting for a milestone rooted in personal growth and connection. This evening isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about savoring the joy, warmth, and peace I’ve worked so hard to create.

To anyone struggling with gambling or any other addiction, I want you to know this: change is possible, no matter how daunting it may seem. The first and most important step is to acknowledge the problem and be kind to yourself as you work toward a solution.

In my journey, I found that honesty and openness were key. Admitting my struggles to someone I trusted, like my psychiatrist, Dr. Bailey, was the turning point for me. It’s not easy to open up, but sharing your burden lightens the load and opens the door to support and guidance.

Finding a community that understands your experience can make all the difference. Gambling Anonymous became my lifeline. The weekly meetings offered a safe, judgment-free space where I could connect with others who truly understood what I was going through. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to do it alone—there are people and groups ready to walk this journey with you.

Another piece of advice is to focus on small, manageable steps. Don’t pressure yourself to achieve perfection overnight. Celebrate every small victory, whether it’s a day, a week, or a month without gambling. These small wins add up and strengthen your resolve over time.

As I celebrate six years of gambling abstinence, I want to leave you with this: setbacks don’t define your journey—they’re opportunities to learn, adjust, and grow. No matter where you are on your path, be patient with yourself, lean on your support system, and never stop believing in your ability to overcome. Every step forward is a victory worth celebrating, and you are stronger than you know.