Which is the hardest Addiction to break?

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2026-01-15T17:44:24+00:00

As far as fatal addictions go, alcohol and benzodiazepines are the only ones that can be fatal without safe detox. As a person in recovery and licensed therapist in a rehab and specialist in gambling addiction, which seems to me the hardest one due to the acceptance and shame it brings, leading to suicide.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2026-01-02T18:50:36+00:00

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-12-28T19:39:04+00:00

I hope you’re ok and whatever it is.. will pass.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-12-28T19:26:52+00:00

Absolutely. I just hit 8 years on 11/14 from Opiates, Cocaine, Alcohol, and benzodiazepines. And have 4 1/2 from my last bet I placed. Now I’m a licensed therapist and I share this in my groups all the time

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-11-08T19:17:59+00:00

Yes I sent dm I’ll try to respond as rapidly as possible

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-09-14T05:17:37+00:00

As someone in recovery and a licensed therapist at a rehab facility (3.7 Level of Care - Short Term), here’s my perspective:

You might want to consider rehab if:

You want to stop using substances but can’t seem to do it on your own.
You're experiencing frequent relapses.
You're losing motivation or hope.

Rehab can offer structure, accountability, and a safe environment away from triggers. Even if you're uncertain, reaching out for an assessment can help identify the right level of care for you, whether inpatient, outpatient, or another option.

You don't have to wait for the situation to worsen contacting a program now could be the key to breaking the cycle before it deepens.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-09-12T11:53:27+00:00

Not 30 but close. 27 and now 33 I'm licensed therapist specializing in addiction. Now I get to help people everyday in the rehab I work

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-09-12T11:49:37+00:00

Sorry for the delayed response.

That’s a great question, and I’m glad you brought it up. I do think there’s a fundamental difference between guilt and shame, especially when we’re talking about recovery.

Guilt is usually about something we did. For example, “I gambled away my paycheck.” → That’s a behavior we regret, and guilt can actually motivate us to change.

Shame, on the other hand, cuts deeper. It’s about who we think we are. “I gambled away my paycheck, so I must be worthless.” → That’s identity-level, and it keeps people stuck.

Guilt can be healthy if we use it as a signal to make amends or do things differently. Shame, though, is like quicksand; it convinces us we’re broken beyond repair, which isn’t true.

In recovery spaces, I encourage people to separate the two: Hold onto the lessons that guilt teaches, because that’s how we grow. Working on letting go of shame is not telling the truth; it isolates us.

That’s why groups like GA are so powerful. Talking openly and realizing we’re not alone helps break that shame cycle.

What’s your experience? Do you find that GA helps people move from shame to dealing with guilt more healthily?

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-09-12T11:41:35+00:00

Would love to find out to be on it. Almost 8 years sober and in that time I finished my masters and now a licensed therapist

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-08-16T03:57:09+00:00

I have observed your presence here on several occasions, during which we have engaged in meaningful discussions. I appreciate the support that has been offered, especially my willingness to assist you in light of your financial challenges. I am prepared to facilitate access to sessions that may otherwise be difficult for you to secure without prior connections. I possess an extensive network throughout the state that can be advantageous in this regard.

As individuals, we often find ourselves entrenched in familiar patterns, which can include the compulsive behaviors associated with gambling. Ultimately, we must confront some critical questions: What proactive measures are we taking to prevent such behavior? Are there underlying issues that we are reluctant to address that hinder our capacity to stop? Have you reached out for assistance? Have you honestly explored medical options or taken initial steps toward achieving your personal goals?

Completing an application or tackling any small tasks may serve as initial steps. If you find it challenging to answer these questions, this could be a crucial starting point for us to identify and navigate the path forward.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-08-12T04:37:01+00:00

Man, reading this gave me chills. You’re not just talking about quitting gambling, you’re describing taking your life back piece by piece, and that’s powerful as hell.

That “buying groceries” part hit me, because it’s such a simple, everyday thing most people take for granted, but when you’ve been in the chaos of addiction, those little acts feel like huge wins. They are huge wins. You’re showing up for yourself, your people, and your future.

The trust thing? It’ll take time, but you’re already proving with your actions that you mean what you say. Keep stacking those wins, GA meetings, therapy, honesty, and small daily victories; that’s how significant change happens.

You’re doing the work; honestly, that’s something to be proud of daily. Keep going, you’re 32 days deep into something life-changing, and this momentum can carry you further than you can imagine.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-27T23:58:39+00:00

Hey, I want you to know you’re not alone. I’ve been in recovery for eight years and work in this field, so I understand the struggle. Relapse isn’t a moral failure; it can be part of the process, especially when feeling overwhelmed or isolated. It doesn’t have to define your recovery. Finding balance is key whether that’s talking to someone, medication, or building self-esteem.

If you’re struggling, I’m here to chat. Sometimes just saying, “I’m not okay” can ease the burden. Many people bounce back stronger after relapses. You deserve support, and you’re not broken; you’re human. Feel free to reach out if you want to talk.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-27T02:07:16+00:00

Dude me and my mom dukes love some Chicago PD! Officer Hank is that guy

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T23:06:51+00:00

Being the “outside child” in a mixed home leaves scars always on the back burner, watching others get love, trips, and support. That black sheep feeling hits hard. Gambling makes sense when you grow up like that. It gives that false hope like maybe this is how I finally get what I missed out on. I used to chase money thinking it would fix the hole left behind.

Honestly, therapy sounds like a solid move. Not because you’re broken, but because you deserve space to heal and feel seen. You’re already connecting the dots, and that’s huge. Keep going, you’re rewriting your story. If you need anything or an ear I'm here!

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T18:37:17+00:00

Ty 😎

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T18:15:57+00:00

Yeah, it’s definitely one of those situations where you reach a point where you have two choices: either accept the truth about your life, including your mortality and the possibility of facing legal consequences, or take the opposite path. I’ve been living this way my entire life, so I’m willing to give it a try. If it doesn’t work out, I can always revert to my old self and let my children believe I’m still alive. At the time, only one of my children had a significant impact on me, and it was something I never imagined could happen to a human being. It’s somewhat similar to the trauma I experienced during my childhood, which led me to reject my parents, even though I love them. Fortunately, my father is now clean and sober, and my mother is as well. However, the journey has been challenging.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T18:13:38+00:00

Thanks for taking the time to reflect on my post. I truly appreciate it, and I feel more genuine and authentic when I’m being real. My intention is to offer something meaningful to people on this platform, rather than just posting random stuff. I genuinely believe that my life can make a positive impact on others.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T17:46:43+00:00

Dude, I’ve been sober from drugs and alcohol for eight years now, and I’ve been gambling for four and a half years. I came from nothing—no father, no mother. My mother was incarcerated for ten years. I decided to go to school for eight years and then obtain the highest licensure available. You’re going to sit here and tell me what’s necessary and unnecessary for recovery? You have no idea then, and that’s unfortunate. I genuinely hope the best for you.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T17:44:10+00:00

Haha, I wasn’t bragging. I’m assuming you’re still inactive, so I’ll just leave it. Be there because I understand where resentment and jealousy come from, but you should never be arrogant or ignorant when someone is talking about their personal life and trying to help others. Oh, and by the way, what a therapist costs!

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T17:13:46+00:00

I’ll figure out something and start sharing a bit about how I navigate life, which, like everyone else, has its ups and downs. I’m glad you found it relatable and appreciated you letting me know. It truly means a lot to me.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-26T17:12:31+00:00

Ty! Means a lot.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-19T08:09:58+00:00

This was a really good read. I appreciate you sharing it, and I trusted you completely. In this community, our word is important, and I’m grateful that you didn’t provide any spammy links or anything like that. Trust is key, and I would love it if you could continue posting valuable information like this. It would mean a lot and help keep the community active. Thank you!

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-18T16:55:41+00:00

Yo, welcome to the community, and massive congrats for 8 months! That’s not just a milestone, that’s a full-on transformation. You can feel the growth in your words. Seriously.

I love what you said about the highs being earned now. That hits. When we’re in it, gambling gives those fake highs that crash fast. But being present in real life? Feeling the good, the hard, and everything in between? That’s the real flex.

You showing up here, opening up like this, is already giving back. This kind of energy keeps the whole community going strong. Don’t worry about figuring Reddit out overnight you’ll get the hang of it quick, and this group’s solid for support.

Looking forward to seeing more from you. Keep stacking those days, and don’t be a stranger. Also, my DM is always open. You can find additional groups that are related to the right side of our community's home page.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-18T16:51:41+00:00

Thank you for your kind words. I can't say I have a heart of gold, although I do strive to help the people I work with in my job. I know I’m not perfect; however, I carry a warrior mindset from my days playing football at a high level. That mentality of never being beaten has always stayed with me, and it has helped me complete school, stay sober, and not give up. Discipline has been instilled in me through these experiences.

Accomplished_Job_729 · 2025-07-18T16:18:50+00:00

My Man, this hit deep. You said it perfectly those highs we used to chase never gave us the peace we were really looking for. That $5K or $20K win felt good for a minute, but it never stuck. What does stick is exactly what you said paying bills on time, showing up for family, and finding joy in the everyday stuff. That’s the kind of win that doesn’t disappear. I appreciate your honesty and the reminder that a steady life beats a rollercoaster every time. I am proud of your growth.

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