Compulsive Gambling Disorder

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.