Living with a gambling addiction can have devastating consequences, as former Newcastle United player Karl Colley knows all too well. In a recent interview on the Undr The Cosh podcast, Colley bravely opened up about his struggles with depression and how it led to a crippling gambling addiction.
Colley’s exposure to gambling began at a young age, with his father, grandfather, and uncle all being avid gamblers. He recalled his father leaving him outside the bookmakers as a child, unable to see what was happening inside but fascinated by the sounds of the commentary. This early exposure planted the seeds of curiosity and eventually led Colley down a dangerous path.
As Colley’s football career progressed, the pressure and mental health issues began to take their toll. After signing with Sheffield Wednesday at the tender age of 17, he eventually found himself playing for Newcastle United under the legendary Peter Beardsley. However, the move to Newcastle only exacerbated his mental health struggles, pushing him down a dark and uncertain path.
Colley described feeling lost and vulnerable in the big city, with the bookmakers becoming his safe haven. He found solace in the adrenaline rush of placing bets, momentarily escaping from the weight of his depression. Unfortunately, this temporary relief came at a steep price.
The more time Colley spent in the bookmakers, the worse his gambling addiction became. He found himself placing bets every 30 seconds, completely consumed by the thrill of the game. His month’s wages would disappear within days, leaving him with just £5 to survive on for an entire week. Thousands of pounds were lost in a never-ending cycle of chasing losses and hoping for that elusive big win.
Even after dropping down to non-league teams and facing personal turmoil, Colley’s gambling addiction persisted. Playing solely for the purpose of earning money, he continued to suffer in silence. Colley explained that while people were aware of his gambling habit, nobody understood the depth of his depression and the toll it was taking on his mental well-being.
For six days a week, Colley battled his demons in silence, unseen by those around him. It was only on match days when he would put on a brave face and try to mask the pain. This internal struggle took a toll on his mental health and left him feeling isolated and alone.
Colley’s story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of gambling addiction and the impact it can have on one’s life. It highlights the importance of seeking help and support for mental health issues, as well as recognizing the signs of addiction before it spirals out of control.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, it is crucial to reach out for help. The National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) offers confidential support and guidance for those in need. Additionally, websites like gamstop.co.uk provide resources for self-exclusion from UK-regulated gambling websites.
Let Karl Colley’s story be a lesson to us all – a reminder that no matter how dire the circumstances may seem, there is always hope for recovery and a brighter future.