For him, it all started at secondary school, as small, innocent "trespasses". Gaming was fun, a hobby that didn't seem dangerous. But over the years it gradually developed into something far more serious.
- Gradually I began to realize that I had a problem. I gambled to pay bills I knew were coming. At the same time, I constantly applied for new loans and refinancing without fully realizing how deep I had ended up, he says.
The debt problems grew, and new banks and creditors became part of everyday life.
Life in the shadow of addiction
The gambling addiction affected not only his finances, but also how he related to others.
- I lived a double life. Out among people I wore a mask and pretended everything was fine. But at home with my family I was quiet, uninterested and pulled away, he says.
He says that he often overreacted to questions and became angry for no apparent reason. This made it difficult to build close relationships.
- Many people knew who I was, but no one really knew me. Even after I quit over six years ago, it has been a long process to learn to live again and let people back in.
An unsuccessful attempt at treatment
At one point he tried to get help through treatment, but he wasn't ready to be honest.
- I lied to myself throughout the treatment. After a short gaming break, I rewarded myself with a trip to the casino, because I thought I had been "so good". At the time, only my mother knew about the problem, and I didn't want anyone else to find out, he says.
This failed attempt at treatment led to the addiction continuing for several years.
When the bubble burst
The definitive turning point came when he and a friend lost their flat. Failure to pay rent meant they were evicted. That's when his mother started asking questions.
- I had to admit that I had started playing again. There was no way around it, he says.
He sought help, but the support equipment failed. NAV could not offer anything, and DPS rejected him because they did not know which department could help. The mother then contacted Gambling Addiction Norway, who came to the rescue.
- It was the first time I really realized that I had to take action. I had tried before, but this time I was ready to do what was required.
The key to success: community and openness
The meetings at Gamblingaddict Norge were decisive for him.
- Before the first meeting, I thought I was unique. I thought that no one else there would be as "up-and-coming" as me. But I was wrong. Realizing that I was not alone made the process easier, he says.
Another important part of the road to recovery was gaining control over the economy.
- I was given a date for when I wanted to be debt-free. The economy was tight for several years, but I knew it would end, he says.
For the first time, he chose to be open with both family and friends.
- Transparency was essential. I let them ask about everything - how things were now, how I was thinking when I was playing, everything. That support gave me the strength to stay on the right path.
A new chapter
Today, he has got his life back on track.
- I am slowly but surely beginning to understand the value of money. Before, I didn't see the difference between NOK 30 and 300 thousand - it was just numbers on the screen, he says.
With financial control and a new direction in life, he now finds joy in helping others who are in the same situation.
- I enjoy life and am grateful that I can contribute to making a difference, he concludes.
Do you have any questions or want to talk?
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