MAFS star reveals 15-year gambling addiction and admits he's been through a ‘dark time'

Scottish Sun

5 days ago

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A MARRIED at first star has revealed he had a 15-year gambling addiction, and admitted he's been through a "dark time".
Luke Debono, 32, shot to fame last year when he wed Amy Kenyon on the E4 reality show, but has now revealed his past battle with gambling.
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MAFS star Luke Debono has bravely opened up about gambling addiction
Credit: Instagram
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The reality star admitted to going though a 'dark time'
Credit: Instagram
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Luke found fame on Married At First Sight last year
Credit: instagram/@lukedebono1
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Luke married Amy Kenyon on the E4 reality show, but it ended in disaster
Credit: Channel 4
In a brave video on Instagram, the Married At First Sight UK star admitted that he had an addiction to gambling that took over his life.
He also talked candidly about finding the "courage to seek help".
Addressing his battle with addiction, Luke bravely his followers: "Hi everyone, as part of my journey that I want to share.
"I think it's kind of the right moment and the right time to share a bit of a personal journey.
Continuing he said: "For the last, I don't know, 15 years of my adult life, I've been kind of going through gambling as an addiction.
"It was quite dark and, you know, it took all of my effort and all of my energy and that's what kind of the only thing that I was kind of thinking about and obsessed with.
"And ever since the last, you know, three years in recovery, I have found strength in talking about things and power, in being vulnerable and being honest, having clear communication.
"And I think every experience that I've had has led to this point where it makes me feel like I'm ready to share this story.
"And if that helps you, if you're currently going through an addiction yourself, whether it's pornography or substance or gambling as well, mental health, please do so because one of the most powerful weapon and tool that I found was the ability to talk to someone.
"And it gave me the confidence and the courage and the strength to find recovery."
Watch the brutal moment Married At First Sight's Amy ends marriage to Luke as viewers are distracted by her 'funeral' outfit
Luke then said: "And life is good because I'm not gambling. You know, I'm actually really happy and really content, you know, that the recovery is ongoing.
"And it's always something I respect because obviously I know where it can go and how dark it can be.
"But there's always light at the end of the tunnel."
The star went onto double down on how anyone going though addiction "should talk to someone" and "seek help".
How to get help for a gambling addiction
Gambling addiction is a serious issue that can have devastating effects on individuals and their families. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is crucial for seeking timely help. Common indicators of a gambling problem include spending more money and time on gambling than intended, lying about gambling activities, and experiencing financial difficulties as a result. Emotional symptoms may include anxiety, stress, and depression, often exacerbated by the losses and the cycle of chasing them.
There are several avenues for support and treatment for those struggling with gambling addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common approach that helps individuals change their gambling behaviors and thoughts. Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, provide a community of individuals facing similar challenges, offering mutual support and understanding. Additionally, various helplines and online resources are available to provide immediate assistance and guidance.
It is essential for friends and family members to be aware of these signs and encourage their loved ones to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent the escalation of the problem and help individuals regain control over their lives. By addressing gambling addiction head-on and utilizing available resources, individuals can work towards recovery and a healthier, more balanced life.
MAFS JOURNEY
Luke found fame on MAFS UK last autumn.
He was paired with Amy, and they had all the makings of a strong relationship at the start, but things soon turned sour.
Amy then brutally dumped him during the vow renewal ceremony after he made some shocking comments.
The bride revealed how Luke wrote in a letter: "I wish I got down on my knees and terrorised your b*****e."
During the vow renewal ceremony, Amy made her feelings for Luke clear when she arrived dressed for a funeral.
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Luke and Amy had a rocky time on the show
Credit: E4
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Amy brutally dumped Luke on MAFS
Credit: Instagram
She savagely told Luke: "I know my worth and you aren't worthy of me. This marriage is done, dead, deceased.
"I stand here in front of you today wearing black to mourn its death. RIP."
A few months ago, Amy reignited her feud with her ex husband again and said she will "never speak to him again".
During a Q&A on her Instagram page, she was asked: "Have you spoken to whatever his name/face was?"
Amy knew who the fan was referring to and swiftly responded: "No I have not or never will speak to b*****e terroriser/he who shall not be named xox".
In a chat with The Sun in February, Luke revealed that he regretted his comments about Amy's b*****e.
Amy and Luke's bitter split
Amy and Luke initially seemed like a strong couple on the hit series, but cracks began to show in their relationship as the season progressed
Over the course of the experiment, Luke's behaviour, "lies" and the sexual innuendos he often made, left Amy feeling uncomfortable.
At the vow renewal ceremony, Amy dressed in black and declared the marriage "done, dead, deceased" and ended their relationship before walking away from her former groom.
Then, in the final commitment ceremony, Amy revealed Luke had sent her a letter with a crude note about "terrorising Amy's b*****e".
After the show concluded, the pair swiftly unfollowed each other on Instagram, with Amy now saying she plans on never speaking to Luke again - despite Luke speaking positively of their time together.