Gambling disorder is a behavioral addiction that is characterized by persistent and excessive gambling despite the negative consequences it may cause.
In other words, people with gambling disorder continue to gamble even when it causes problems in their personal, professional, or financial lives.
Gambling disorder is classified as a mental health disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association. It is estimated that gambling disorder affects approximately 1% of adults in the United States.
Symptoms of Gambling Disorder The DSM-5 outlines several symptoms of gambling disorder, including
- A persistent and recurring gambling pattern that leads to significant distress or impairment
- The need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired level of excitement or relief from negative emotions
- Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling
- Preoccupation with gambling, such as constantly thinking about gambling, reliving past gambling experiences, or planning future gambling opportunities
- Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences, such as financial problems, job loss, relationship difficulties, and legal issues
- Lying to family members, friends, or therapists to hide the extent of gambling involvement
- Borrowing money or resorting to other means to finance gambling
- Relying on others to provide money to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling
- Jeopardizing or losing important relationships, a job, or an educational or career opportunity because of gambling
- Resorting to illegal activities, such as fraud or theft, to finance gambling
Treatment for Gambling Disorder Like other behavioral addictions, gambling disorder can be treated effectively through a combination of therapy and medication, when necessary. Treatment options for gambling disorder include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps people identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that are contributing to their addiction. For gambling disorder, CBT may help individuals develop healthier attitudes towards gambling and learn how to manage triggers that lead to gambling behavior.
- Medications: Some medications may be helpful in treating gambling disorder, particularly antidepressants and mood stabilizers. These medications can help to address underlying mental health conditions that may contribute to gambling behavior, such as depression or anxiety.
- Support groups: Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, can provide individuals with gambling disorder with a supportive community of people who are going through similar experiences. Support groups can help individuals feel less alone, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and learn from others who have successfully overcome gambling addiction.
Getting help is key
It is important to note that treatment for gambling disorder is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person may not work for another. However, with the right combination of therapy and support, individuals with gambling disorder can achieve and maintain recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling disorder, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Gambling disorder can have serious consequences on an individual’s life, but with proper treatment, recovery is possible.
