Rotherham man admits he started gambling on horse racing and football as a child
33-year-old Kieran Smith has been telling us his story ahead of the Grand National this weekend
A South Yorkshire man - who tried taking his own life due to problems with gambling - says those struggling with the addiction 'aren't alone'.
Kieran Smith from Rotherham started betting on live sport as a child - & only stopped when he reached out for help 5 years ago - at the age of 28 - after reaching crisis point.
Ahead of the Grand National this weekend - He's reminding people there is help out there for those finding it difficult to manage the habit:
"I look back now, and I didn't want to die, but I wanted to leave the world of gambling.
"I just couldn't see any light at the end of the tunnel. I wanted to stop causing this pain to everyone around me and myself.
"You end up leaving a trail of destruction behind you. I wanted to escape the feelings of shame, and gambling can offer you a temporary escape from whatever problems you're facing at home.
"At a very early age, I'd be sat watching the horse racing or a football match, and I'd be fascinated knowing that it wasn't just an event - I actually had something riding on it.
"Knowing what I know now, you can lead a gamble free life.
"You can even just have a break if that's what you feel like you need.
"Whatever you do, make a change. Perhaps, hand over your finances to someone you trust.
"I was frightened that people would feel different about me and look at me differently, but that wasn't the case.
"The amount of support I received was incredible."
January 2024 witnessed the highest monthly number of calls to the National Gambling Helpline since it opened - with 4,816 calls and online chats made across the month.