Gambling Disorder

About Gambling Disorder

Gambling disorder is a persistent and recurrent pattern of problematic gambling leading to significant impairment or distress. Features include needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement, restlessness or irritability when trying to cut down, repeated unsuccessful efforts to control gambling, preoccupation with gambling, gambling when distressed, returning to try to win back losses, known as chasing, lying to conceal the extent of gambling, jeopardizing relationships or opportunities, and relying on others for money to relieve financial problems. In 2013 DSM-5 moved gambling disorder from the impulse control disorders to the substance related and addictive disorders chapter, making it the first behavioral addiction recognized there, reflecting evidence that gambling engages reward systems in ways similar to drugs. The condition is associated with high rates of depression, anxiety, substance use and suicidal thoughts, and with financial and legal problems that can affect whole families. The growth of online and mobile gambling and sports betting has increased public health interest in the disorder. Treatments with evidence include cognitive behavioral therapy that addresses distorted beliefs about chance and control, motivational interviewing and mutual support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous. Opioid antagonists such as naltrexone have been studied for reducing urges, and financial safeguards and self exclusion programs are also used.