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Pathological Gambling: Behavioral Addiction Disorder

Persistent maladaptive gambling causing psychosocial impairment

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Pathological Gambling: Behavioral Addiction Disorder?

DSM-5 gambling disorder requires four or more criteria including increased amounts to achieve excitement, restlessness when reducing, repeated unsuccessful attempts to control, preoccupation, gambling when distressed, chasing losses, lying, jeopardizing relationships and reliance on others for financial bailout.

Severity is classified as mild (4-5 criteria), moderate (6-7 criteria) or severe (8-9 criteria) based on number of symptoms.

Neurobiological mechanisms involve dopaminergic reward pathways, prefrontal cortex dysfunction in decision making and altered serotonergic and noradrenergic signaling.

Distinct from professional gambling, social gambling and gambling occurring during manic episodes which require different management.

High comorbidity with substance use disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and personality disorders requires integrated assessment.

Symptoms

Preoccupation with gambling including reliving past experiences, planning ventures or thinking of ways to obtain gambling money.
Need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve desired excitement.
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop gambling.
Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down on gambling.
Chasing losses, lying to conceal extent of gambling, jeopardizing significant relationships, employment or educational opportunities and relying on others for financial bailout.

Risk Factors

Early age of first gambling experience and family history of gambling or substance use disorders.
Male sex and younger adult age, though older adults are increasingly affected.
Comorbid mood, anxiety, substance use, ADHD or personality disorders.
Adverse childhood experiences, trauma history and chronic stress.
Easy access to gambling venues, online gambling availability and cultural acceptance influence risk.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Suicidal ideation, self-harm or severe psychiatric symptoms require immediate emergency evaluation.
  • Severe financial crisis, legal problems or family breakdown necessitates urgent psychiatric and social work involvement.
  • Inability to control gambling despite significant negative consequences indicates need for professional treatment.
  • Comorbid substance abuse, severe depression or anxiety warrants coordinated care.
  • Acute withdrawal symptoms, mood instability or relapse during treatment requires clinical reassessment.

Treatment Methods

01
Cognitive behavioral therapy targeting cognitive distortions, gambling triggers and coping skills is the most evidence-based intervention.
02
Motivational interviewing helps engage ambivalent patients and facilitate behavior change.
03
Pharmacotherapy options include naltrexone for craving, SSRIs for comorbid mood or anxiety, mood stabilizers and lithium in selected cases.
04
Self-help groups including Gamblers Anonymous, financial counseling and self-exclusion programs provide critical support.
05
Family therapy, treatment of comorbidities, relapse prevention strategies and long-term follow-up with regular monitoring of gambling behavior, finances and psychiatric status are essential for sustained recovery.

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.