Out of the Shadows: A Story of Recovery and Hope

Persons with gambling addiction do not look like what we imagine. They could be professionals, parents, and partners—people who have regular day jobs and families.  But beneath all these is a person who is struggling with a secret. Gambling addiction often takes root not in recklessness, but in moments of stress, loneliness, or vulnerability.

Sam (not his real name) was one such individual. He shares his story in the hope that others may find courage to seek help but more so that no one needs to walk this journey alone.

Sam’s Story of Recovery and Hope

“I never imagined gambling would take control of my life.

I was doing well in my career. I was an IT professional with a stable career, a good income, a loving wife, and two young children. But behind closed doors, I was losing everything to gambling.

My exposure to gambling started early. Growing up, lottery betting was common and normalised. As I grew older, I was introduced to football betting and later casino games like blackjack and baccarat. Even when I lost, the excitement kept pulling me back.

When I got married in 2019, I stopped gambling for a while. I thought I had outgrown it. But in late 2023, with higher income and more time on my hands, a business acquaintance brought me to the Casino and from then on, I was hooked. Early wins gave me false confidence. I began chasing bigger wins, applying for credit cards and then taking credit card cash advances. Borrowing from friends and family became so frequent that they started to avoid me.

Within just six months, I had accumulated close to $400,000 in debt. The total amount of money that went through my hands—wins and losses combined—ran into the millions. I started to bet more in the hope of winning more to cover my huge losses. But the debts just mounted. Gambling became not just an obsession but also my prison.

Eventually, the truth surfaced. My family was devastated. My mother sold her house to help repay part of my debts. My in-laws and siblings stepped in to help as well. I carry deep regret for the pain I caused those who loved me the most.

In 2025, overwhelmed by debt and despair, I filed for bankruptcy. That was my lowest point—but it was also the turning point for me.

Through the National Council on Problem Gambling, I found One Hope Centre, where I received counselling and later joined a support group. For the first time, I spoke openly about my addiction without fear or shame. I learned that gambling addiction is not about willpower—it is a condition that thrives in secrecy. I was constantly hiding in the toilets, gambling late at night when everyone else is asleep because I did not want anyone to know I was gambling.

Recovery has not been easy. Gambling is everywhere. Even small bets can rekindle old habits. I realised that even a small Toto bet of $2 can trigger a relapse. And so, I willed myself to tune my mind out whenever I walk past a betting outlet. Since August 2025, I have remained gambling-free.

Today, I work in a gig economy. My income is lower, but my life is calmer. I spend more time with my family.

My definition of success has changed—from ‘how much I earn’ to ‘how present I am.’ ’’

Sam’s journey did not end in despair because he reached out to us. At One Hope Centre, he received professional counselling, found a safe space to speak without shame, and walked alongside others who understood his struggle.

If you are struggling with addiction, do not carry the burden alone. Help exists. Healing is possible. The first step is simply asking.

Call us 65471011 or email help@onehopecentre.org