Myles Stephenson, a former member of the R&B group Rak-Su and the winner of X Factor, has bravely shared his struggle with gambling addiction and has joined forces with the charity GamCare. This partnership aims to raise awareness about gambling issues and provide support to those in need.
The Dark Path of Addiction:
Myles Stephenson revealed that he plunged into a “really dark place” due to his gambling addiction. It all began with small bets among friends but soon escalated, resulting in the loss of hundreds of pounds. His battle with addiction commenced before his time with Rak-Su and haunted him from the ages of 18 to 21.
The Slippery Slope:
Stephenson shared that his habit initially involved casual betting with friends. However, it quickly transformed into an addiction. He described a routine of visiting betting shops as early as 7 a.m. on his way to work, a harrowing pattern that many individuals struggling with gambling issues can relate to.
The Accessibility of Online Gambling:
The singer highlighted the allure of online gambling and its pervasive nature. He explained how it could be done from virtually anywhere in the world, whether on a bus or in a restroom. This ease of access compounded the challenges he faced in overcoming his addiction.
Finding a Way Out:
Myles Stephenson’s journey to recovery included practical steps to break free from his gambling addiction. He recounted how he blocked gambling websites on his phone and used the excuse of dropping a colleague off at their home to resist the urge to enter betting shops.
A Partnership with Purpose:
In his collaboration with GamCare, Stephenson expressed the significance of using his platform to help others facing gambling issues. He believes that raising awareness and offering support to those in need is a crucial step in addressing this pervasive problem.
Empowering Others to Seek Help:
Myles Stephenson’s partnership with GamCare is a testament to his commitment to making a difference. By sharing his own experiences and insights, he hopes to empower individuals struggling with gambling addiction to seek help and find a path to recovery.
Myles Stephenson’s openness about his battle with gambling addiction and his partnership with GamCare underscore the importance of addressing this issue in society. His story serves as a source of inspiration for those grappling with similar challenges, emphasizing that recovery is possible with determination and support. Through this collaboration, Stephenson and GamCare aim to shed light on the issue of gambling addiction and provide a lifeline for those who may be suffering in silence.