Bright Lights: what one woman's 25-year gambling addiction really cost

‘Sharon’ has been addicted to poker machines 'pokies' since they first arrived in Australia in 1992.
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Through this animated documentary, she reveals the devastating impact gambling has had on her life. Her story culminates with an incident that pushes her over the edge: an encounter with her seven-year-old daughter and her precious piggy bank.
Warning - viewers may find the content of this film distressing. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or email [e-mail] or [e-mail]. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-8255. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at www.befrienders.org
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#BrightLights #Gambling #Pokies #PokerMachines #Australia

[@theGuardian]

If you want to know more you can read our Q&A with the filmmaker ► www.theguardian.com/news/2021/jan/25/bright-lights-an-animated-exploration-of-the-devastating-grip-of-poker-machines

[@kennethcarpenterii7636]

Do a video on pull tabs. Business owners drop thousands a day in the chase for the win

[@astropioneer3296]

Great short film. Creatively evokes what the living nightmare for this woman and her family. I remember when gambling was illegal. Now it is state sanctioned as a way to generate revenue, nevermind how many lives are destroyed in the process. I hope “Sharon,” and the countless others in active addiction, find help and a way out.

[@user-qh1mj5zq8e]

The thing about gambling addiction is that it doesn't matter how much you win; you're not playing to win. You're playing to keep playing.

[@adrianserpas5191]

Facts

[@barryschalkwijk9388]

And even if you can resist sinking your wins (i did for a long time) the graph still keeps dipping down. There is no win at the end of the tunnel that can save you either way.

[@kevlyth1712]

Play poker, be patient, people give money away, casinos don’t.

[@ZachAsaD]

You actually win though

[@bayjustin3885]

Playing for Adrenaline? That dopamine hit …

[@zax1998LU]

One my friends has a gambling problem. He was starting to get over his addiction by getting control of his finances, cancelling his Spotify premium ect. One day we were listening to music together and a gambling ad came up in his Spotify. It caused him to relapse and lost all the money had saved up till then. Gambling ads should be banned.

[@bobbyjohnson1086]

Nah he shouldn't have cancelled his Spotify premium 😂

[@sergoogle5061]

​@@bobbyjohnson1086 sounds like you were touched by your daddy and pushed away by your family. Definition of a loser if you ask me 😂

[@TeddysTheName]

Never understood why we can't have tobacco and cannabis ads, but it's completely fine to advertise alcohol, gambling and prescription pills.

[@wavydavy9816]

My brother racked up 50k in gambling debts and still has a serious addiction some 25 years later.

[@UnregisteredUsername]

ads in general should be illegal

[@thebpulse6477]

The absolute worst feeling in the world is when you get back into your car after a really bad loss and look off into the distance completely stunned trying to comprehend the massive error you’ve made

[@chinita249]

I thought I was the only one

[@smellsuperb1]

You're not the only one, either of you 🤦🏾‍♂️☹️😭 5 years and 3 days gambling free

[@5trace]

@@smellsuperb1 That's amazing.

[@gucciadjective7745]

I'm not an addict but I know that feeling after losing winnings.

[@BlusViews]

You are so right!

[@stevensbrugnera5454]

”there’s not a jackpot big enough to win back what you’ve lost and you’re still there" That hit hard

[@diamondbackdtb]

gambling is no joke. I am lucky that I keep a budget and control my gambling somewhat, but every time i get stuck chasing losses. my mind would focus on those losses and I would trick myself into thinking that I could win it back. you win more by not playing at all really.

[@joshuamoore9751]

​@@diamondbackdtbthanks for your comment. So true

[@sexydudeuk2172]

That's why I never gamble. You lose more then you win and it exploits your greed

[@joshuamoore9751]

@@sexydudeuk2172 sexaddictduquie that's a true comment.

[@hbrotha1866]

@@sexydudeuk2172 it’s evil, it plays on you’re emotions.

[@parksoo-kim6908]

I don't gamble, but this may be the most depressing video I've ever seen. The animation and music are incredible.

[@charbyibrahim]

Appreciate the feedback... sorry to depress, but yeah - we wanted to portray the misery and destruction of these machines and industry.

[@gaylordtv561]

​​@@charbyibrahim gave epiliptic attack ty

[@dagmarramgad5441]

One of my best friends squandered his entire inheritance at the casino. He literally lost EVERYTHING. His marriage, his home, his car, his business. He’s deeply in debt without a dime to his name. I hope he can find a way to eventually turn his life around, but what a brutal awful addiction. It’s no joke

[@Lebowski333]

That’s what bankruptcy is for. Hope he’s ok

[@gabrielpowers766]

He just needs a little stake money to win it all back.... ask him.

[@M_SC]

It started as a choice. I feel bad for the other people in his life

[@PragmaticBLT]

Yep, knew a guy who would get his pay cheque, go to the slots during our hour lunch and come back with barely a penny to his name. I'm no better tbh. I've won and lost entire yearly salaries. Heck. Even if I won 100k tomorrow It wouldn't cover my net loss.

[@Hjw511]

@@PragmaticBLTSeek for treatment asap. Gambling addiction is not something you can “snap out of it” by yourself. It’s a disease rather than an habit.

[@caylarayla13]

As a mother, the scene where she took her daughters piggy bank money made me tear up. I can’t imagine going through an addiction like this.

[@mondaysimon2241]

Omg!!

[@michelleandnatalieskiffing7477]

I cried 😢

[@thomasedwardharrison2879]

Yeah. Kids stealing money from their parents is one thing. But parents stealing money from their kids is something else

[@animegeek3109]

Yeah, my mom went into my room when I was at work and stole from my safe the silver and gold I had in there, that I was going to pass down to my nieces, it broke me to pieces knowing that she was so sweet until then

[@LoveLightVibration]

@@animegeek3109This makes more sense than the script. Sorry that happened to you, too. A person with that type of addiction would know the contents of the average piggy bank wouldn’t be enough for even a spin.

[@marcel693]

This is genuinely more horrifying than any horror movie I've ever seen

[@cal3576]

It is True though it’s a mugs game and your a fool if you play it and a fool if you believe it Particularly with pokies or slots it’s not only money you loose It’s particularly dangerous for your own health

[@johnspinelli9396]

Horrifying because it's reality

[@Nobe616]

Unfortunately this kind of addiction I feel like it's not taken seriously enough

[@riggsvsoliver]

It isn’t, people just look at it as “well just don’t throw away money, it isn’t hard to stop!” But yet they treat substance abuse how it should be, which is with understanding, the problem with gambling is it’s all mental instead of physical (eventually becomes physical after you can’t do anything)

[@michaelsurratt1864]

@@riggsvsoliver that’s to mention you can’t watch any types of sports game without getting 475 ads for online gambling

[@dollors1]

Dude people laugh and call you a quitter if you say you are in GA or whatever. It's not seen as a real addiction and it's getting worse

[@Praisethesunson]

@@dollors1 Very true. Now gambling is literally on the smartphone everyone has. I couldn't imagine how hard a gambling addiction would be to break when I can literally carry my vice around.

[@Maros554]

My friend told me a story about his dad's ex colleague, who lost 300 000 euros from a company's account in one night betting on some random football matches. Dude lost his entire life in one night.

[@mingfei1622]

What happened to him?

[@Maros554]

@@mingfei1622 Divorced, not in contact with family, broke... Should have gone to jail but somehow he dodged it.

[@abundant_wisecrack223]

What happened next?

[@Littleowl85352]

​@@abundant_wisecrack223 jail would be the most likely scenario, a theft of 300,000 euro is definitely something that they send you to prison for

[@BrianMoore-uk6js]

@@abundant_wisecrack223 He probably had to pay the company 300 000 EUR and was forced to sell all his assets to pay. Just guessing.

[@salaleeee]

when i was 18, i went to the casino with my boyfriend for the first time. i looked around and saw the desperation in a woman's face next to me, aggressively hitting the screen, but still spinning. It was terrifying.

[@vtech920]

Gambling is the worst when you lose and walk towards your car feeling like you just lost all your money.

[@mattjohnson8090]

Ya did lose it

[@nickloughner7512]

Nah it's worse when you lose the car 💀

[@mattmason1986]

​@@mattjohnson8090; Clifford Johnson?

[@beebop9712]

They always say. When you're going to Vegas just make sure to fill up the tank first 😂

[@mikee101]

try walking back to the bus stop afterward and you don't have enough for the fare

[@4ktrash4lyf]

This is pure art. The pain of it was incredibly palpable. The visual and audio design kept me arrested the whole way through. Bravo to the artists behind this very important piece. We need more art that speaks to the soul of our society.

[@charbyibrahim]

Very kind of you, and thanks for watching. Our animation team worked tirelessly to realise the vision. Best!

[@mpazinambao2938]

It's is very engaging.

[@bobbin321]

@@charbyibrahim Great work! I loved this piece.

[@freeopinion2140]

"When the fun stops, STOP" Doesn't work because the fun only stops when it's too late.

[@charbyibrahim]

INDEED! Everybody we spoke to in the making of the film, really struggled to walk away time and time again. Thanks for watching. :)

[@SkidCudi]

You can't walk away very difficult

[@nunobettencourt2716]

@@SkidCudi I tried so many times and I have, to say gamestop worked

[@SuicideApple-wm6et]

Aand thats why dopamine detox exists

[@jimmysnailshoes]

That slogan was probably thought up by a bookies or casino, theyre already indicating that it was fun, when reality is, it was never fun, why not have a slogan with when the misery continues STOP

[@nhialor5321]

I started gambling at 19 and stop at 27. 3 years later, started again at 30 playing blackjack when I went to Vegas and lost 2g. A week later, I drove to the casino and remembering a voice telling me it’s not too late to turn around cuz you will empty your bank account. Of course, I thought it ain’t gonna happen. In a matter of 2 weeks I lost all the money that I saved up the last 3 years I been working so hard. Kept trying to chase my loss and been losing for the last 4 years. It’s been 7 days since I last gamble and to be honest, I still have itch, but it’s time to forgive myself. It’s something I haven’t been able to do the last 4 years. Forgive yourself if you been through what I been through. FYI, I lost more than 100k the last 4 years. I’m 35 and I don’t want to be broke by the time I’m 40 if I live till then. Take care!

[@nhialor5321]

@@mason2450 a month sober so far.

[@nhialor5321]

@kdr711 they say it takes 21 days to break a habit. Don’t gamble for 21 days and see if that helps. It work for me. Best of luck!

[@veganandlovingit]

It's an awful feeling afterwards, the self hatred for failing again. I just did it tonight. I hope you are doing ok

[@nancybogart3899]

NIHA LOR --- yes “ forgive your self and LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE. CONGRATS

[@nancybogart3899]

@kdr711 bAND YOUR SELF. PLEASE. I’m speaking with my “ story “ it almost killed me … I had NOTHING left. Took me YEARS TO CLIMB OUT.

[@mathildesm954]

I think it's a similar problem to the micro-transactions you see in gaming. When you don't "see" the money leave your pocket, that's when it's dangerous.

[@charbyibrahim]

Too true! Thanks a bunch for taking the time to watch. :)

[@starman1004]

For someone like myself that has had micro-transaction addictions in the past (still do today) this is a very clever comment. I never thought about it that way but it is oh so true.

[@mrbungle3310]

Its the same

[@analvss7965]

Yes it's very true. Now I'm experiencing something similar to this.

[@andstill3095]

100%

[@p1xxyv3n0m2]

The animation and sound design really put you in her skin. Its incredible

[@BryantEnglishTV]

I worked in pubs in Sydney and watched people week after week come in and feed their whole wage or pension into those machines... sometimes in just a few hours... and they'd all rise with the same glazed look of horror as they stumbled back out onto the street. Tradies, single Mums, middle-class shiny shoe types, poor people, old diggers... all the same in the Pokie room... It's pure evil.

[@repubug1365]

Usually, in average how much they will lose in one single night ?

[@1jo_king]

@@repubug1365hundreds to thousands mate

[@josephmclaughlin9865]

Well written, Bryant. Thank you.

[@jameshorton3692]

Agreed, pure evil

[@Shelly-lz9tm]

I worked in a pub that had 18 machines. The jackpot would have to have 1000 dollars put in for it to go up 30 cents. ​@@repubug1365

[@jenreejohndebil8919]

The more you win, the more you'll have to lose.

[@jjii4182]

Omg super deep comment. I started off playing penny machines now I'm at 25-50$ a spin to be happy. Its destroyed me. 😔

[@stephenperry4245]

I started with 50 dollar bets on roulette and now I bet 100 plus a time on grey hounds.I put 900 on a dog the other week after being up 1500 from the day before.I reckon I have gambled 200,000 in three years.Gambling has destroyed my health and im lucky to be alive .I eat very little as a result of squandering 1_2 thousand a week.

[@jjii4182]

@@stephenperry4245 yes it's a painful addiction that kills almost everyone who is hooked. Many take their own lives because they can't beat the addiction,

[@josearguettabitoni6448]

@@jjii4182 if you want to gamble play something else the slot machines is just giving money away

[@Ambers3rdFupaRoll]

What stops me from gambling, is the thought of living with the embarassment of losing something like my house to a rigged machine. Its NOT random, they are programmed to release wins at certain times. I would be so embarassed I wouldn't be able to live.

[@JCeetraTheGreat]

It's actually worse because it IS random and entirely stacked against you. If they released at certain times you could ride the wave out. Since it's always pulling bad odds you can and will fall into bad spirals...

[@Turnpost2552]

How about video games? They are sort of the same vien. AS you gamble your time.

[@barcode7601]

I was hooked up for 10 yrs but since this pandemic, I haven't gone to pub or done any sort of gambling. This pandemic has been a blessing for me

[@charbyibrahim]

This is so great to hear! Wishing you the very best in staying away even once things open up. Thanks for taking the time to watch the film. Charby :)

[@hassanaboulhamayed9117]

@@clairgoodall1363 disgusting comment

[@deka3549]

Please be safe

[@SEliteGuitarist]

@@hassanaboulhamayed9117 I'd rather have people like this do this disgusting habit at home then walking back and forth at the store I work at cause they need "one more ticket"

[@bilbo_gamers6417]

That's great. It's a horrifying thing to get addicted to. Hope you can remain clean :). I hear some people say to buy a gambling machine just for your house so you can play without losing money, but I don't know how well that works. I imagine that's not how it works.

[@crystalidx]

Gambling addiction suicide rate is the highest among addictions.

[@Damian-qv6wh]

@@forextrading4556 that’s just another form of gambling

[@mrkings8340]

Forex is also gambling

[@farmer__]

The illustrations and graphics for this are brilliant

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks! Our animators definitely put in some hard yards...

[@gabebarbieri194]

@@charbyibrahim This is so well done, so creepy and dramatic. The sound design is amazing too, very off-putting

[@gabebarbieri194]

@@charbyibrahim It’s almost similar in style to the film ‘Requiem for a Dream’. Was this film an inspiration for you?

[@charbyibrahim]

@@gabebarbieri194 - Thanks for the feedback, Gabe. The sound design was inspired by the hypnotic nature of the venues and machines themselves. I spent quite a bit of time researching at various places, and began hearing these sounds even in my down-time. As for Requiem for a Dream' - it's one of my favourite films... so maybe? But not intentionally. Thanks for watching. :)

[@swaldron5558]

Same as mobile phone.

[@1kenodave1]

The worst thing for a gambler is to win.

[@lcs8512]

This hit me HARD.

[@Teddy31976]

Very true.

[@bayjustin3885]

Losing is a close second

[@zibane6246]

What most people who aren't gambling addicts don't understand about gambling addiction is that it robs you of more than your money, it robs you of any other joy that you may have in your life. A gambling addict doesn't enjoy anything else outside of gambling. If he doesn't have a pair of dice in his hands or his hand on a slot machine, he doesn't feel anything that approximates joy. And, after a while, even the joys of gambling fade until he becomes a husk who is merely acting on habit.

[@DodongoManoof]

When I get home and I can hear phantom sound effects and see the lights behind my eyes trying to sleep, i realize how insidiously these machines are designed to destroy my willpower

[@jk22222sd]

Very disturbing because of how true this is. I am so glad I have no desire to gamble. Ever.

[@charbyibrahim]

I'm glad for you too!

[@prativaneupane2306]

Why you are here then🤔

[@Tube2097]

​@@prativaneupane2306Perhaps they have gambled the odd bill here and there just nothing big nor becoming addicted themselves but can see the risks and why some people are snared by it. A drinker can see the dangers of alcoholism without being one themselves, too.

[@Ambers3rdFupaRoll]

Same here!!

[@swiftie_2247]

@@prativaneupane2306ever heard of interests sake ? Or learning more about the world?

[@shannsimms9072]

I hate gambling. I saw it destroy someone I was close to. He’d run in the gas station for gas and he’d come back out to the car furious because he just lost 2-5k in one of these. I watched him make almost a million in two years (selling drugs) and loose all of it in a few months. He was a bad person but I didn’t realize how real gambling addiction was until I saw him go through this.

[@SevenEllen]

Was he really a bad person? If he didn't have that gambling addiction, why would he sell drugs? It sounds more like it was to feed the addiction, not about the money.

[@patrickprendergast9589]

can u tell us more

[@shannsimms9072]

@@SevenEllen no he sold drugs way before he gambled

[@gabrielpowers766]

@@shannsimms9072 Everyone needs to know a Dr. Feelgood. He was providing a valuable service. LOL

[@Ashcon2]

Gambling’s ruined me. My mood revolves around if I’m up or not. I’ve lost my life savings in 6 months, I had so many plans for my future. I’ve tried to get help but I just can’t stop. Only reason I haven’t killed myself is because it wouldn’t be fair to my parents or girlfriend. I’m miserable 24/7 now and I have no one to blame but me

[@silent_jav]

I hope one day you realize that it isn’t money that’s important, but the people around us. Treat the world as your family and you won’t have to worry as much. There will always be someone willing to lend a helping hand. A lot of people are bitter and have a hard time trusting others because they’re afraid to be heartbroken. No matter what happens to you in this life you can overcome it with the right mindset. I’m promise you this!

[@fred-youtube]

Get on Gamstop, it stops tou from gambling

[@goddesst]

I hope you're doing ok

[@Ashcon2]

@@goddesst I’m not but thanks for asking

[@rachealrock3638]

Sorry to hear I know the struggle everyday is a new day to change

[@jungersrules]

Just interesting side note: "The incidence of pathological gambling in Parkinson's patients is significantly greater than in the general population. A correlation has been observed between dopamine agonist medication and the development of pathological gambling." I heard a story on NPR of a woman who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and was prescribed a medication to help with the tremors. However, she started gambling. It was only after she had gotten into deep that she found out her medication specifically stated that one of the side effects is compulsive gambling. Once she stopped using that med, the addiction went away.

[@maryanne1830]

Omg, so sad. It could happen to anyone. The minute you think you're too smart to get sucked in, it's got you.

[@djayjp]

No, only to dumb people (or those on Abilify--shocking but true).

[@charbyibrahim]

It really can! All the people we interviewed for this film never thought they'd end up with such a crippling addiction... it was hard for them to ever imagine how bad things could get. Thanks for taking the time to watch. :)

[@Neeva01]

@@djayjp that’s an ignorant response bro you obviously haven’t dealt with this specific disease of addiction. If anyone’s dumb, you are

[@djayjp]

@@Neeva01 I'll forgive the ad hominem. Consider: they should know that, overall, they are mathematically guaranteed to lose money. The moment they attain that insight all appeal should vanish. It's really just a cognitive fallacy. I blame poor education in our schools in regards to financial literacy.

[@staples4335]

@@djayjp All gamblers know the machines are rigged. Yet still go and play. Has nothing to do with how smart someone is. As any addiction people know the risks and know it destroys lives but they still do it for the excitement and dopamine hit. For a lot of people its not even about winning but just the excitement of playing.

[@tbhgolden2108]

As a casino employee, it’s a struggle every single day to see people lose everything.

[@pedenmk]

I'm thankful I never got into gambling. Worst addiction of all I've been told.......

[@charbyibrahim]

I'm glad for you too... the people we interviewed were shocked to find how difficult is was to walk away, even very early on in their addiction journey.

[@pedenmk]

@@charbyibrahim I once had a friend who was a gambler. He was unable to stop REGARDLESS. Sad situation.

[@charbyibrahim]

@@pedenmk Totally heartbreaking stuff man... something has to change!

[@pedenmk]

@@charbyibrahim yes it is. And there's many who do it.

[@hellohellohello6847]

This is a world class bit of work. From the graphics to the story telling. Just 100% world class!

[@charbyibrahim]

So lovely of you, Phil. You really made my day. Thanks kindly for watching and commenting. Charby :)

[@jessecabennett2008]

Keep in mind, this is the case for many of the homeless in Las Vegas. People come from all around to party or celebrate, gamble everything away, and have no way to get home and nowhere to go. Its terrifying.

[@jessecabennett2008]

In another vein, I know someone who's company is currently involved in a lawsuit against a coworker. This person was addicted to draft kings and maxxed out his company credit card, 50,000 dollars gone.

[@gk3611]

​@@jessecabennett2008 That is so scary! Especially because he burned that bridge with his EMPLOYER. He has no way to get back on his feet without finding a new job, if he can find one.

[@yolanowak1909]

That is my life in a nutshell. Exactly 25 yrs of torture and still trying to stop.

[@markenver6430]

What game do u play

[@yolanowak1909]

@@markenver6430 like the dragon, lightning link. Any new slot machine. Basically love to gamble, my weakness

[@Niceguy1510]

@@yolanowak1909 bro I don't understand how anyone would ever expect to win money from a slot machine. It's electronically setup for you to lose

[@lisalangille2071]

😮 Are you serious?!? 25yrs gambling? I don’t mean to seem judgmental, because I’m honestly not! I’m just shocked! This is entirely none of my business, but how have you been able to afford it all this time? I notice you said “and still trying to stop” have you sought help for gambling addiction? I really hope you can stop (Easier said than done, I understand) Truly, I hope you can. 💜

[@zenosama8505]

I would wish you luck but luck will not help you quit only you can do that you can talk to someone which I recommend but in the end only you can do this and I believe in you

[@junc2191]

The non stop sound that the jackpot machine makes keep one going- almost like someone cheering for you

[@trevormj]

The best solution is to buy an old slot machine and play it at home - be the punter and banker at the same time...

[@stuartaustin2378]

That's a terrible idea. Why would that help?

[@trevormj]

@@stuartaustin2378 - if need to explain then you'd best get back to Las Vegas and those slot machines....

[@jsledge8557]

That’s like telling an alcoholic to drink non-alcoholic beer. It doesn’t work.

[@stejer211]

@T MJ You may want to look up what gambling addiction actually means. Spoiler: the slot machines are only means.

[@trevormj]

@@stejer211 - Well it worked for a mate of mine - even paid for his annual holidays. So what is your great idea then??

[@jessepond2062]

Horrifying, exactly how my gambling starting, I won $128 dollars and then I got addicted and started stealing from my family to get my selfish high. 3 years clean now

[@charbyibrahim]

Congratulations Jesse! That is no mean feat. Thanks for watching our film. All the best!

[@nancybogart3899]

Are we related ? Cause she did it to me. I’ll never forget, & NEVER TALK TO HER AGAIN.

[@jessepond2062]

@@nancybogart3899 haha I do not know a Nancy but sorry about your situation ❤️

[@pinciukauskas]

One day at the time. I am clean 6 years.

[@jessepond2062]

@@pinciukauskas ty yeah I’m clean still 😀 Ty bro

[@jonathanlovesadventure7838]

The biggest thing you can do to avoid problem gambling is read a ton of books about how Vegas makes their odds and how these machines work.

[@theexpresidents]

Or do drugs.

[@naturalroyalflush]

It doesn’t matter...the easy money lure isn’t affected by machine hold percentages

[@oogabooga1023]

Gambling addiction has been an 8 year struggle for me. It's hard to overcome and caused me to acquire so much unnecessary debt

[@VincentKathakraoff]

How is it going?

[@NoTaboos]

Who cares? Survival of the smartest.

[@goddesst]

Same.

[@Kumorini]

@@NoTaboos Okay edgy boi

[@rssureshcool]

Ya bro me to from past 6 years .I also have huge debt of 6 laks.

[@brian-j9924]

I need a reminder like this once in awhile. I used to make decent money and spent all of my extra money at the casinos (slots and video poker). I think it filled my time and I found people who also enjoyed the casino. Worst part is the fact that I’ve spent thousands and only ever won a bonus worth just over $500 and never even a Jackpot. Fortunately I no longer live near actual casinos, but we have shady establishments all over the US called “Skilled Arcades” where they feature a game called fish tables which are way more addicting then slots. The odds seem to be much better, but they can still destroy ur life

[@ringspecies]

It's even worse when compounded with an already existing condition, bipolar disorder being a prime suspect. During the manias, I lost a lot. Then, suddenly I won big enough to recoup all those losses, just as I was coming off of one of the periods. It allowed me to retrospect what I have been doing, and I swore to never even step foot in a casino as long as I live. Nine years and counting at the time of writing this.

[@KimJilene]

I am in the same boat. How did you stick to your resolve to never go back?

[@ringspecies]

@@KimJilene I wish I could say some profound words on how I reached enlightenment and learned to disregard, but sadly it's the mundane rule I set for myself "If I am feeling happy and I am sure something will succeed, or if my friends warn me that I am manic, I am forbidden to buy or pay for absolutely anything that is not food or another necessity, and need to literally move to the other sidewalk if I know the casino is in my way if need be".

[@jonathanfarrington15]

this is literally one of the most amazing things i’ve ever seen in my entire life

[@TheMusicGirlsWorld]

Claudia is an amazing voice actress. I didn't even realize at first she was voicing an amalgamation of stories - I thought it was her story. You can see in the comments how many people this resonated with for so many reasons and her putting a voice to the shame and obsession is a big reason. Great work to all on this!!

[@joelreyes9600]

Sadly im 67 im homeless i threw all my money saving investment ira 401k into slot machines i only rely on social security live in my car my two daughter's dont talk to me anymore my wife left me all because i became addicted stay away please just stay away dont ever touch one 😢😢😢

[@gabrielpowers766]

How much approx was it though? I'll feel less sorry for you if it's like $20 million vs $400K or something.

[@Yurple88]

I hope you're doing better. Stay strong my friend.

[@theexpresidents]

Joel, you owe me money.

[@michaelday6590]

Living in Vegas I’ve struggled so much with gambling addiction. It started when I was working at a restaurant (I hated) inside of a casino i was constantly exposed to the machines. It started out on my breaks and it gave me an adrenaline rush and I was hooked. I’ve been struggling with it for 4 years. It’s such a trap. The I can win back what I’ve lost thought constantly running through my mind. There is no jackpot big enough to get back what I’ve lost. I’ve had those nights where I’ll see the poker cards in my dreams. It’s sickening. It’s the escape from reality that throws me deeper in it. I’m doing better now. This past year has been great I’ve learned to stay away from casinos and the smaller ones that dot every corner here. Every now and then I can feel it beckoning me in. Occasionally I give in only to lose what I’ve worked hard for. Then the staring at myself in the car mirror cussing out myself because I should’ve known better ensues.

[@fuzzmosisr8601]

Man, I feel this hard. I'd be lying in bed after, close my eyes and it's like I could physically see slot machines spinning in the black of my eye sight. It's a nasty addiction. It's so easy to be immersed in it because it's game after game after game at lightning pace. You just need to understand the psychological reasons for why you're playing and realize that it's just become a compulsion.

[@fred-youtube]

Sign up for Gamstop, you can't go anywhere then

[@nancybogart3899]

Micheal day Just STOP & REMIND YOUR SELF. OF THE. PAIN. ALL. DAY LONNG

[@AnnaBulaklak369]

@@fred-youtube Same. I like games better I barely gamble, and do not gamble a lot.

[@kevgambles241]

Been trying to quit but I keep thinking about the loses and how I could potentially win it all back but I know I can’t. It’s actually sickening. Low appetite lost of sleep.

[@uioplkhj]

Las Vegas wasn't built on winners.

[@whynot2030]

@@uioplkhj I am on the same boat

[@peterchen632]

You have glorious future ahead of you when you quit gambling. Let go of your past because the money you lost will not belong to you anymore

[@charbyibrahim]

Wishing you the very best in recovery... this disease is too real! I hope there are services that can support you in your region. BLESS!

[@rajinder84singh]

I lost a lot in last 15 days and not able to sleep, eat now.

[@jamanitsme]

I can totally find myself in this video, I've been a gambling addict for a very long time, wasted alot of money, wich is a shame cause I work hard as a mover, and money doesn't come easily, so now I'm 37 and made a brand new start, quit gambling about 2 years ago, but I still feel the urge to gamble, believe me they should ban casino's, and it's crazy, somehow when I first started gambling I actually won a couple of times in a row, wich made me hooked and also made me believe I could always earn money the easy way, well guess what I had to find out the hard way, so please take me as an example,never start gambling in the end you always lose, so let's say I easily wasted 70000 dollars, I could have done so much amazing things with that amount of money, so to all the younger viewers here, if u read my comment, please stop gambling immediately, u can have an amazing life without, that's it greetings😉

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for sharing that... and for watching our film. Wishing you the very best in your recovery journey. :)

[@gregoryrobertwall]

Gambling cost me absolutely everything I have worked for. Now at age 39, I am in enough debt to pay for an entire house because of gambling. Its an absolute illusion. Losing losing losing. It kills relationships, friendships, businesses, families and has caused so many people to turn to suicide. Casinos are poison. I was a high roller player for years. I now never put a penny down again. Gambling WILL ruin you.

[@charbyibrahim]

So sorry to hear about how gambling impacted your life... but so glad that you came out the other side. Thanks for taking the time to watch our film. BEST!

[@mountainofthunder92]

Agreed. I’ve lost so much money over the last 4-5 years. I’d win, then put it all back. It is always difficult for me to just walk away. I walked in one time with $200. I got up to $800. Walked out with $200. It a no win situation. If someone loses $500 then go back the next day and win $2000, that $500 you lost the day before is gone forever. You will never get it back. Stay away from the casino. It’s a den of iniquity filled with vipers.

[@RoIIingStoned]

Thanks for sharing and your honesty

[@mountainofthunder92]

@@RoIIingStoned You’re welcome ☺️

[@binbindu6159]

write a book and share it with the world, democracy is not working for.the majority.. for a long time

[@isaacayala2547]

Huge shout out to the animation team on this video . Really well done

[@theuberman7170]

The piggy bank scene was absolutely horrifying and true.

[@charbyibrahim]

YUP! A real heart-breaker...

[@michelleandnatalieskiffing7477]

I cried

[@anthonyfarandatos7839]

@@michelleandnatalieskiffing7477 Me too!

[@joelreyes9600]

It happen to me I'm homeless now live in the streets

[@huntinbuddy]

@@joelreyes9600 Yet you still have Internet access....probably even a device to connect with....so how bad off are you really?

[@dumpsta-divrr365]

2:36 I hope it doesn't go unnoticed that the lack of third places in this woman's life is what led to all of this.

[@RockTheClock247]

When she quietly snuck into her daughters room to steal her piggy bank I was like 😱🥺😭

[@lolly5453]

Important story that needs sharing, more often and loudly! I don’t think many of us truly realise the grip gambling can have, and its impact on the lives of those affected. Was always difficult for me to understand how it can be so addictive - until you’ve been caught up in it, blinded by the bright lights and drawn in, despite the financial, emotional and personal losses, and experienced the torment inflicted by gambling; only then, when it’s too late, do you fully understand. Thanks for spreading this important info and also making a great film!! I would be interested to see more of your work in future! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@jungersrules]

An addiction is an addiction. Mine is food and the price I pay is that I'm overweight (and all the baggage that goes with it). Thankfully, my body won't allow me to eat to the point where I gain tons of weight, but my mind does push it to the limit. I tell myself I can't drink alcohol anymore because my body doesn't like it. However, I am unable to do this when I EAT something that kind of gives me the same, "yucky" feeling like alcohol does. I've tried to reason myself out of it, and I've succeeded on many occasions ... for a little bit. But, it always comes back.

[@DendyJungle]

Me being so condescending to the woman then halfway through the vid I remember how much I lost on stocks and crypto

[@charbyibrahim]

The comparisons are REAL! Thanks for watching :)

[@leialmasy1]

Very real crypto and stocks just safer. I have gambling addiction. I fuel it with stocks and crypto. Im well off but stressed all the time.

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

how did you lose? its a bull mkt.. you must be a poor

[@mcpartridgeboy]

Not the same you can win on the stocks and investments but you cannot win on slot machines

[@GudMarty]

@@juanshaftpatel7488 cause they sell lol you can’t lose if you don’t sell. There will be a bull market again 🤷‍♂️

[@a.b.8606]

Just Like Smoking, there should be a warning sticker put on these machines to warn the user that gambling causes addiction

[@davidcooks2379]

Just ban both

[@charbyibrahim]

AGREED! We'd ideally like to see them abolished entirely, but warnings are absolutely necessary in the meantime. It's impossible to make an informed decision, WITHOUT INFORMATION! PS - Thanks for taking the time to watch.

[@chilliecheesecake]

@@davidcooks2379 You dont actually solve anything by banning stuff, you just drive the problem underground.

[@Zebra.Lionfish]

Government makes way too much money on taxing both of these problems, you'll never see addictive money makers go away no matter what form they take.

[@davidcooks2379]

@@chilliecheesecake you just need to find a replacement. We need much better sports and social clubs, then people won't need to smoke and gamble. For tobacco, snus may provide a replacement. And now we are out of the EU we can make it legal (the only ever advantage of being outside the EU - we should use it)

[@Jimmy4video]

What an awful situation. These machines should be banned.

[@skair5425]

More importantly, companies are taking the same gambling mechanics to lootboxes in videogames and selling them to children. Raid: Shadow Legends, for example.

[@depfeffel6455]

@@skair5425 this terrifies me for my daughter's future, I have no knowledge of computer games except her cousins love Fortnite... They tried to explain it to me once, no chance

[@skair5425]

@@depfeffel6455 As a longtime gamer myself, I think I can explain it pretty well. A decade or so ago, every game came with an upfront cost. You knew what you were paying for, and the price of that experience. That way, if you read a review and felt like it wasn't worth it, you'd simply not buy. Now, however, we've shifted over to the freemium model, where games are free to get into, but use psychological manipulation to nudge players into paying for cosmetics or tools or whatever, and basically suck them dry. If you have a great deal of self-control, then maybe it's fine to play these games. But I wouldn't bet on it.

[@charbyibrahim]

YES PLEASE! PS - Thanks for taking the time to watch. :)

[@Paul__Allen]

Or how about people take personal responsibility. The majority of people don't have a problem and gamble within their limits.

[@gabipimentel1493]

This is incredibly well done and amazingly well narrated. Thank you.

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for the lovely feedback, Gabi!

[@cal3576]

@@charbyibrahim this is Actually true it does happen and you will never end up on Top you loose More then money believe me it’s a fools game should never been introduced or allowed it’s very dangerous for your health in so many aspects ways

[@p1xxyv3n0m2]

This was genuinely gripping and thought provoking

[@ValiantPixel]

Very impressive animation in this short film. I hadn’t heard about the introduction of gambling devices in Australia until now. I’m fortunate to have avoided this type of addiction in my personal life because there are so many avenues through which greedy companies intend to prey on the weak.

[@Ironheart73]

In statistics there is what we call the law of large numbers. To explain simply, a coin can land heads or tails. If you toss if for the first 10 times, its possible that all the outcomes would be tails. But try tossing it 1000 times. Youd get an equivalent value of 498 heads and 502 tails. Closer to the expected odds. Now, no casino game has a 50:50 odds. The odds usually favor the house. So which means you are not even gambling your money. The more you bet, the more you will lose. Winning in your first early bets is the luck. but that only encourages you to keep on betting. And eventually, you will lose. It is a scientific fact.

[@charbyibrahim]

And to add to that, these machines are rigged to lose WAY more than win. PS - Thanks for watching and sharing insight.

[@gabrielpowers766]

That's why you have to either play poker, or learn to count cards and play blackjack, or perhaps become very knowledgeable on some sports such that you could bet and win enough to profit. I suggest poker. It's easier to learn and you can practice in penny stakes online. There's always a fish at the poker table and the casino's don't care if you win fish's money as long as you aren't winning the casino's money. They are happy with the rake.

[@jethrowegener]

And as with any addiction, it often comes from pain. A very real, very deep, dark pain within that forces people to seek some way to relieve that pain. We need to be kinder. To help people with their pain, rather than make it worse.

[@charbyibrahim]

TOO TRUE! Whether it's drugs, alcohol, or gambling. So much comes from pain. Thanks for sharing :)

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

It's the hole in the soul and it's been there forever. It WILL move, too. Drunks tend to eat too much/too little and smoke/coffee obsessive. Some wiop gamble. Too.

[@AP-dv5vk]

Look at the society we live in. Bookies, casinos, alcohol all flashed in our faces. The vulnerable will always be drawn in. Consumerism holds more value to industry than morality, this is why I advocate for a remodelling of our own economy here in the UK, but that will only gain support through education and it is NEVER the priority of the state to educate. Because with education comes revolution.

[@georgehoffman3439]

I was talking to a friend about this, you don’t see any adverts promoting tobacco or smoking, yet you see pay £10 and get £30 to play every time you go on the tube, or the betting rebellion.

[@crypastesomemore8348]

Lol as opposed to dying of some miserable disease at age 20 in nature?

[@DiaJasin]

If you have a moral society away from consumerism you'll likely just be like any poor conservative country

[@nuckchorris5031]

gambling is a cancer in today’s society

[@charliejenkins6355]

I do security and she's telling the truth I see it everyday.

[@mpazinambao2938]

The art and storytelling are so well done.

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for watching and engaging with the film. Very kind of you!

[@hyperiondragon]

Sad story but beautifully told and beautiful animation

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@mexrevilia780]

Final journey of my gambling addiction its today, enough of losing money, enough of depressed, enough of heart breaking.

[@pratiwi1523]

Me too.. March 29, 2023, took me long enough and losing all my money, depressed, and could not even have courage to look my parents in the eyes anymore.

[@grojahbojat2402]

Hows it goin?

[@KimJilene]

I decided to quit a week ago. I AM DONE WITH THIS ADDICTION. Sick of losing. I want to be a winner in life and gambling is not getting me there. How is your journey going?

[@KimJilene]

@@pratiwi1523 How is it going?

[@weliveinasociety8797]

​@KimJilene Hope your journey has been going well. I'm just a stranger over the internet, possibly on a different side of the world but I genuinely believe in you and wish you the best. You've got this!

[@jackcarraway4707]

"I never trust a dollar I hadn't earned." Scrooge McDuck

[@oniluka]

golden

[@Mark-lj1dj]

Amazing 😂

[@julioculio]

A tear ran down my face

[@charbyibrahim]

Sorry Julio - but thanks for stopping by to watch out film.

[@regentvros4968]

Wooo what an masterpiece please make more videos like this

[@charbyibrahim]

HAHA - Shucks! I shall do my best. Thanks for the lovely words - very kind. :)

[@Connor_Herman]

Extremely well done visuals and soundscape. I personally felt as if I were the one who broke my daughter's piggy bank for gambling money. Rock bottom could not begin to describe an action like that.

[@jamesclements997]

An absolute masterpiece of audiovisual. I take my hat off to you.

[@zenosama8505]

I’ve made a vow to never gamble I’ve seen the affect it has on people I refuse to go down that road

[@charbyibrahim]

Stay strong, Zeno! And thanks for taking the time to watch. :)

[@justtobad4052]

I don’t man I’ll probably try one time and leave.

[@ematique4392]

Same here

[@reneejanssen4953]

the video animation is fantastic and really drew me into the story

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for the lovely feedback, and taking the time to watch! :)

[@usamagideir9396]

@@charbyibrahim did you make this? It's really well made

[@charbyibrahim]

@@usamagideir9396 - Yes, I did. Thanks so much for the kind word. Very much appreciated brother.

[@JadeAngelina]

to anyone struggling, you WILL overcome this addiction!

[@DigitalLife3000]

Wow, the sound editing was absolutely phenomenal 👍 great video

[@AshArAis]

When I was home for Christmas, my parents had terrestrial TV on. There are no alcohol ads on Irish TV anymore iirc, but there were three gambling ads per slot. I was really dismayed at these companies being allowed to be vultures to really vulnerable people. I know some people can moderate but so many lose their lives to it - and their families suffer. I hope things can improve. A little disclaimer whispered at the end of an ad does nothing.

[@AshArAis]

Freemium/Pay to Win mobile games are also a serious issue. Loot boxes just the same as gambling.

[@douglascampbell4993]

Yep! 100%! I can’t believe it’s apparently ok to use such manipulative psychology designed to draw you in more and more with dopamine hits when ever those little tunes play, tricking your brain into believing you’re winning, or even really close to a big win, when the reality is you just rolled 20 credits to win 8... the only game in the world that you can be losing and still think you just won by design..

[@eatsleepheal4420]

@@douglascampbell4993 after enough of years you just actually want zero wins to be skint fast so it's over for another week till pay day coz if you win you just keep going till you lose its like small win just prolongs the pain

[@douglascampbell4993]

@@eatsleepheal4420 wow, and that just says it all... and at the end of the day it’s still only a distraction from something that we want to think about even less..

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

"Terrestrial TV" reminds me of aliens 👽 lol

[@mikebarnes1239]

When I worked in a pub you saw the same people on the machines before I started my shift and they were still there after I finished

[@charzee18]

I’ve won 3k the first time i Went to the casino and lost so much since i then stopped but listen don’t start playing

[@alyssa2796]

As I’ve grown older, it’s glaringly obvious why my dad never gambled. I should call myself extremely lucky for it.

[@smartluck5290]

This is a huge problem at least in my country. We have online casino adds even on kids channels. There’s no statistics proving how many people are actually addictive. There’s no policy that can protect their family members! I’ve been studying this problem from every angle. I’m also planning to do either documentary or research paper to address this issue to our society! The problem of our society is that “you must be ashamed by speaking it out”. I personally lost almost everything for paying out the debts that I never acquired.

[@wasimakhtar2347]

I lost my all money my father has earned I don't know what I will say to him

[@urmum8540]

@@wasimakhtar2347 get help for your addiction

[@baltazar5326]

Which country?

[@samik3184]

Hope you were able to work on your documentary. I lost thousands this week. I'm depressed and hate the casino industry.

[@reagan7406]

I lost all my money and assets at 14 cuz of the online casinos. But i still wouldnt blame it on the casinos. It was my fault. I did loose 50k$ though

[@rosswilliams5740]

The animation in this video is absolutely brilliant! So nice to look at!

[@charbyibrahim]

Thanks for the feedback, Ross! Our animators worked tirelessly to get this done. Thanks for watching. Charby

[@noonespecial1178]

For one person to win a lot of people have to loose that is so true of all kinds of gambling haunting words me my thoughts are on scratch and wins should be called scratch and loose

[@charbyibrahim]

This line really haunted me too... I remember when it was said in one of the interviews, and I felt chills run down my spine.

[@a.tanner8524]

Lose

[@ThePeterDislikeShow]

Doesn't it work the same way in every money transaction? Someone making a lot of money means someone else spending it?

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

Keep the ones that lost, that's what I did. Paper clip each 100 wasted. Wow.

[@Tony-hk4zq]

it looks so easy to give it up but it's so difficult to do

[@skillZ141]

"just don't gamble, just stop, it's not worthy of it, why do you gamble, what's funny in gamble, you lost so much" and then u are there again, hoping to win big , but also asking yourself why the f I am here again...

[@tweakiepop]

Love this, vector graphics? Reminds of original Tron film or Tempest /Battlezone arcade game. Lovely movement with paper cut-out minimalism too, makes me want to draw again - maybe some crayon etching, thanks.

[@charbyibrahim]

You are most welcome! Thanks for the generous feedback. :)

[@rac5341]

Thank you for sharing this video!!!!!

[@bobird6099]

The breakdown and dehumanisation of so many ordinary individuals, perfectly captured and projected via your amazing animation.

[@charbyibrahim]

It's a heart-breaking situation to be sure. Thanks for the kind feedback, Bo... and for watching our film. BLESS!

[@TheGeckoIsKing]

She was one spin away from winning it all

[@happyhermit2022]

Let's make a comparison with the social media of today. Addictive, demoralising and destructive.

[@noonespecial1178]

agree

[@ottolaakso1944]

log off then

[@CBUCK1994]

I think gambling can be fun if done responsibly

[@xhxneybeex]

my grandma lost 500,000$.... every day i imagine how much that would have helped our family.

[@vthikkarin359]

" Huh, what an afwul story, i would never ever fall into such addiction " " Boots up CS:GO to open some cases "

[@madarabalode271]

😪😪😪it is so heartbreaking 💔 and beautifuly and effectively made short movie!!! It is so true unfortunately! I have realised I have problem and this really inspired me to stop right now and never end up this way ! Thank you!

[@MattxDgaf]

I can relate story of chasing losses dug a whole so deep I can sleep in it 🍻

[@LucasRanz-cy5kg]

first time gambling me, and my friend split a $25 deposit into an online casino in junior high. We played blackjack all night and got it to $1600, we decided not to be greedier and decided to cashout the money. We continued gambling over the next years to come and had some ups and downs but played responsibly, only gamble the money you're willing to lose and NEVER chase loses

[@oscarsvensjo7004]

Gambling is the only type of addiction where you believe that you can gamble your way out