What is a Gambling Disorder?

Gambling involves betting or staking something of value, such as money, on an event that has an uncertain outcome, for example, the result of a game or a competition. Some people who gamble develop a gambling disorder, which is described in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (called DSM-5), as a persistent, recurrent pattern of gambling that results in substantial distress or impairment. People with a gambling disorder often become preoccupied with gambling and are unable to control their behavior, but they are not necessarily addicted to gambling in the same way that someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol would be.

A gambling disorder can affect any age group and can be found in men and women equally, although young people are more likely to develop a problem. The risk factors for developing a gambling disorder include an early big win, boredom susceptibility, impulsivity, a poor understanding of random events and escape coping, as well as stressful life experiences and depression.

People who have a gambling disorder may have thoughts about suicide. Studies show that one in two people who have a gambling disorder will think about killing themselves at some point, and one in five will attempt suicide. The suicide risk for people with a gambling disorder is higher than that of any other mental health condition or substance use disorder.

Many people who have a gambling disorder are not aware that their gambling is out of control and do not seek treatment. There are many ways to help people who have a gambling disorder, including family therapy, individual counseling, group therapy, and self-help programs such as Gamblers Anonymous. The most important thing is to talk about your problems with someone you trust and who does not judge you, such as a friend or a professional counselor.

A person with a gambling disorder can also reduce their risk by setting financial and personal goals, avoiding high-risk situations like using credit cards and taking out loans, and avoiding using gambling venues for socialising or as an escape from other emotions. They can also strengthen their support network by reaching out to other people, participating in new hobbies, or volunteering for a good cause. In addition, they can take steps to reduce the stress in their lives by finding ways to cope with boredom and anxiety without gambling. Finally, they can find out about local referral resources for certified gambling counselors and intensive treatment programs by speaking to a family physician or a mental health professional. In addition, they can learn about the DSM-5 criteria for pathological gambling and discuss their own situation with a trained counselor. This will help them decide whether or not they need to seek further professional help.