Compulsive Gambling Disorder

Study Notes

Understanding Compulsive Gambling Disorder

Compulsive gambling is a condition in which a person is unable to control their urge to gamble, despite the negative impact it has on their life.
Gambling can stimulate the brain's reward system and lead to addiction, much like drugs or alcohol.
Signs and symptoms of compulsive gambling include preoccupation with gambling, needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money, and attempting to control or stop gambling without success.
Compulsive gambling can lead to financial problems, relationship problems, job loss, and poor general health. It can even result in suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts.
Although the exact causes of compulsive gambling are not fully understood, biological, genetic, and environmental factors may all play a role.
People with mental health issues, substance misuse problems, or personality disorders may be more at risk for developing a gambling problem.
Compulsive gambling is more common in men than women, but gambling patterns among men and women have become increasingly similar.
Avoiding gambling in any form, people who gamble, and places where gambling occurs may help prevent a gambling problem.
Educational programs that target individuals and groups at increased risk may also be helpful.
Treatment for compulsive gambling can be challenging, but many people have found help through professional treatment.
Some people with a compulsive gambling problem may have periods of remission, but without treatment, the remission usually isn't permanent.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, it is important to seek help at the earliest sign of a problem to prevent it from becoming worse.