Ex-gamblers, their success stories and recovery

There are many people worldwide who struggle with gambling addiction, and believe it or not, they do more than just recover. They go on to help others in the form of counselling, education and raising awareness.

If you or someone you know is affected, there are many responsible gambling resources and support tools you can use, including these Play Safe pages, which offer helplines, self-exclusion, counselling, and more.

Tony O’Reilly: From postmaster to counsellor

Tony O’Reilly was once a respected postmaster in Wexford, Ireland. Then, he stole around €1.75 million from his employer to fund his gambling addiction. He was sentenced to prison and apparently, that's what it took for him to turn his life around.

Today, Tony works as an addictions counsellor. He also travels around the country to educate people, and especially the youth, about the dangers of problem gambling.

Richie Power: Sports, shame, and recovery

The former inter-county hurler for Kilkenny, Richie Power, revealed publicly that he had battled gambling addiction since the age of 17. He tried to hide it and carry the guilt and shame throughout his sporting career. Eventually, he sought help, confessed to his family and started attending meetings.

Power still considers himself an addict, but he works daily on managing it, and he refuses to let the addiction define him. It is safe to say that his story helps others see that recovery is possible, even for those in the public eye.

Martin Stackpoole: From “rock bottom” to helping others

Martin Stackpoole, former Kerry hurling goalkeeper, says he "hit rock bottom" before seeking treatment. Stackpoole spent about five months in a treatment centre after recognising that gambling had taken over his life

He has now been over two years without placing a bet, and he describes himself as a "walking miracle."

He hopes to work with others who face similar struggles. His story shows how admitting the issue, seeking treatment and having support can lead to real change.

“The Gambler” podcast & other voices with lived experiences

One of the most compelling stories about recovery is The Gambler, a podcast profiling Pat Sheedy, who committed fraud and other crimes driven by his gambling addiction. Pat served some time in prison, but he now engages in public discussions about his past.

Another resource to look at is the Gambling Care Podcast (Ireland), which features many episodes hosted by ex-gamblers or people with experience in addiction.

To look at an example, former sportspersons sharing their journey, or family members affected, provide honest insight.

In the end, hearing such success stories really helps reduce stigma and gives hope that recovery is possible.

Common themes in successful recovery

Looking at these real-life stories, certain patterns step forward. Let’s look at them:

• The first step is admitting the problem. Many screamed innocence for a long time, but recognising when gambling has become unmanageable marks a turning point.
• Then comes seeking professional help. Counselling, treatment centres and addiction services are crucial lifelines.
• You can also try support networks. Family, friends, and organisations offer help either online or by telephone.
• Many then turn to giving back and speaking out. There are many more ex-gamblers who use their recovery to help others in need. Talking about it helps both others and themselves.
• It takes ongoing management. Most still face urges and triggers, even after recovery. Monitoring your mental health helps sustain recovery.

Resources & responsible gambling tools

Let’s take a look at some helpful resources available.

• Play Safe pages are available on our site for advice on responsible gambling, tips for limits and support services.
• National or local helplines.
• Online support and peer support forums.
• Addiction counselling services.
• Listening to gambling podcasts and stories about others going through the same will inspire hope and ideas for recovery.

Did you know?

Many people do not seek help until it’s too late. Addiction is not fiction. It is real people who lose money, relationships and sometimes their lives. The sad part is that the youth of today are at high risk of walking that path due to the increase in online casinos and exposure to gambling through sports and social media.

Those who have overcome addiction showed us that change is possible. Their stories began by admitting the problem and accepting help. After that, they chose to give back.

BET ON CHANGE

As you know, we are committed to creating a safe and responsible gambling environment for you. We do it daily through articles like these, our play safe resources we gather for you, and the thorough tests and vetting to bring you only the best and safest in the market.

We also made a short documentary that brings all points of view of problem gambling by including interviews with industry representatives, psychologists, and ex or current gamblers.

BET ON CHANGE is our effort to educate you and also offer you hope and inspiration that recovery is very much within reach. All you need sometimes is some inspiration from the ones who managed to do it!