‘I felt so alone, but didn’t want to talk to anyone verbally’: Ben’s story
Ben texted Shout in a moment of crisis, as he entered recovery from a gambling addiction. Finding it easier to text than talk verbally, a Shout Volunteer gave Ben the space he needed to talk about his struggles and helped him to feel more like himself - with a sense of purpose and a plan moving forward. Here, Ben shares his experience of texting Shout for support.
What did you find helpful about using Shout?
When I reached out for support, I was in crisis. I was in recovery from a 14-year gambling addiction, which had resulted in me losing my relationship, friends, home and left me in bankruptcy and facing the criminal justice system.
I felt so alone, but didn’t want to talk to anyone verbally - I find it much easier to message, especially around issues like gambling that I had kept hidden for so many years.
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I found texting Shout to be so accessible and easy to do. It allowed me to reach out, be heard and move on with my day, getting me out of my moment of crisis.
How did you feel after you spoke to a Shout Volunteer?
After speaking to a Shout Volunteer, I felt more like myself again and like I had a sense of purpose. I had a plan for the rest of the day and felt reassured that I wasn’t alone, and that I could also text again if I needed support.
What next steps did you take after having a conversation with Shout?
After having a conversation with a Shout Volunteer, I was able to call some friends and ensure I wasn’t on my own. I was able to move forward and take positive steps to get through the day ahead of me.
What would you say to someone who needs support but is afraid or isn't sure how to reach out?
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If someone out there needs support but is afraid to ask or doesn’t know how to reach out, I would say - always keep the Shout number saved in your phone, ready to text.
Prevention and proactivity means that you don’t need to search and look for things when you need it most. I would also suggest that if you have a thought of wanting to text for support, however small, take that step and send a message.
The Shout Volunteer was approachable, non-judgemental, positive, understanding and had true empathy, which all came across in messages. Shout really helped me when I needed it most.
