17881 Gambling Disorder Gambling Addiction

Overview

Gambling disorder (sometimes called gambling addiction) is a mental health condition in which a person has a persistent and strong urge to gamble, even when it causes harm to themselves, their family, or their finances. It is not about being weak-willed — it changes the way the brain processes reward and control.

Yes. Around 1 in 50 adults may have a gambling disorder, and many more experience milder gambling problems. Because of stigma, many people do not speak about it, so the true number is likely higher.

It can affect anyone: any age, gender, or background. It is more likely to start in adolescence or young adulthood, and is more common in men. It also affects partners, children, and friends.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling an overwhelming urge to gamble, even when you know the risks
• Risking more money or time than you planned
• Chasing losses by gambling again
• Lying to family or friends about gambling
• Borrowing money, selling belongings, or using bill money to gamble
• Neglecting work, study, or relationships because of gambling

Causes

Main causes

• Changes in the brain's reward system that make gambling feel intensely rewarding at first
• The presence of other mental health conditions, especially depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive tendencies
• Genetic factors — gambling disorder tends to run in some families
• Stressful life events, such as loss, trauma, unemployment, or relationship problems

Risk factors

• Starting to gamble at a young age
• Using gambling to escape from problems or painful feelings
• Having a family member with gambling or substance problems
• Having an impulsive or thrill-seeking personality
• Easy access to gambling, including online apps and 24-hour betting

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• If you are in a crisis and cannot stop yourself from gambling

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you feel your gambling is out of control
• If gambling is affecting your relationships, work, or mental health
• If someone close to you has asked you to get help

Diagnosis

There is no laboratory test for gambling disorder. A healthcare professional will talk with you about your gambling habits, feelings, and any effects on your life. They may use a short questionnaire to understand your symptoms better.

Tests that may be done

• A supportive conversation with your GP or mental health professional
• A short screening questionnaire about your gambling patterns
• A check for other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use

What to expect at your appointment

Your appointment might feel difficult at first, but it's an important step. The doctor will listen without judgement and work with you to find the right next steps.

Treatment

Gambling disorder is treatable. The most effective treatments are talking therapies, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which helps you understand the thoughts and situations that trigger gambling and learn new ways to respond. You may also be offered support groups, financial counselling, and help with any related mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.

Self-care at home

• Set a strict limit on the amount of time and money you spend on any form of gambling
• Remove gambling apps and use software to block gambling websites at home
• Tell a trusted person about your intention to stop or reduce gambling
• Keep a notebook of your gambling urges and what triggers them
• Find alternative activities that give you a sense of reward, such as exercise, hobbies, or volunteering

Medical treatments

Medical treatment is guided by a specialist mental health team. In some cases, medication may be used to help reduce urges or to treat conditions such as depression or anxiety that go along with gambling disorder. These medicines are prescription-only and must be recommended by a qualified doctor. There are no over-the-counter medicines for gambling disorder.

Living with this condition

Recovery is a day-by-day process. Build a healthy routine, keep yourself busy, and avoid places and apps that tempt you to gamble. It is also important to have someone you can be honest with — trust helps reduce the shame that often keeps people trapped.

Lifestyle tips

• Plan your money ahead of time — use budgets, separate accounts, and direct debits
• Talk to a free or low-cost financial counselling service about any debts
• Practice relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle walks
• Join a support group, either in person or online, to stay connected

Diet and exercise

Regular exercise can improve your mood, sleep, and mental health, and can reduce the urge to gamble when you feel restless. Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated helps you think clearly and cope with stress.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Gambling disorder can create deep shame, anxiety, and hopelessness. It is also strongly linked to depression and suicidal thoughts. Treating your mental health and gambling together is the most successful path to recovery.

Prevention

Gambling disorder cannot always be prevented, but you can lower your risk by setting limits on time and money, avoiding high-risk gambling environments, and learning healthier ways to cope with stress or boredom.

Screening programmes

Doctors and health services may ask about gambling if you see them for anxiety, stress, or money worries. Some countries have online self-assessment tools. You can also ask your GP for advice about screening.

Complications

If left untreated

• Serious debt and financial problems, including losing your home
• Strain or breakdown of relationships with partners, family, and friends
• Job loss or poor performance at work or school
• Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and alcohol or drug misuse
• In severe cases, self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Long-term outlook

The outlook is genuinely good. With the right help, most people with gambling disorder can stop gambling, repair their finances, and rebuild the trust of their loved ones. Recovery may take time, but every step matters.

Find support

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