Is Gambling Considered A Mental Illness?
Yes, gambling can be considered a mental illness. Excessive and problematic sports betting can meet the official criteria of a dangerous mental disorder.
Problem gambling, also known as gambling addiction, compulsive gambling or gambling disorder, is officially recognized as a behavioral addiction.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, includes Gambling Disorder under the category of "Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders."
It is a serious condition affecting many millions of people in the United States.
Gambling addiction has increased since the United States Supreme Court overturned a federal prohibition on sports betting in 2018. More than 30 states have legalized some form of sports betting in the wake of the ruling, with aggressive advertising by the betting industry following legalization. Many people have fallen prey.
What is a Gambling Disorder?
Gambling disorder is characterized by a pattern of compulsive gambling behavior that becomes so extensive that it leads to significant distress or impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning in life.
Key features of this disorder include a persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) specific criteria within a 12-month period.
These criteria include a need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement (chasing losses), restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling, repeated unsuccessful efforts to control or stop gambling, and gambling as a way of escaping from problems or relieving a dysphoric mood.
Outside of the DSM-5, there are many other known signs of a gambling problem.
Recognizing gambling as a mental health issue is crucial for providing the necessary support and treatment for those affected. It is also crucial for people choosing never to start betting.
Treatment options may include therapy, medication, and support groups, among other interventions. Relapses in gambling addiction are very common.
Can You Self-Diagnose Yourself With a Gambling Addiction?
While a mental health professional will be able to give you an official diagnosis, you can generally tell by yourself if there is a significant problem. Trust your instincts.
It's possible to recognize signs of a gambling addiction in yourself, but a formal diagnosis should ideally be made by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can provide a comprehensive assessment.
However, you do not need a formal diagnosis to abstain from gambling if you are experiencing a problematic relationship with the activity. Don’t let the lack of a diagnosis stand in the way of quitting today.
Do Treatments Work?
Treatments can work, but many people report relapsing and struggling with treatment. The best idea is to abstain from gambling in the first place.
Here are some commonly used treatments for gambling addiction:
Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective. It helps individuals change the thoughts and behaviors that lead to gambling. CBT also addresses underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.
Medication: There's no specific medication for gambling addiction, but medications used for treating co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety can be helpful in managing the symptoms that contribute to the gambling behavior.
Support Groups: Groups like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) provide peer support from others who are facing similar challenges. The 12-step model used in these groups can be very beneficial for sustaining recovery.
Self-help and Educational Programs: These can provide valuable information and strategies for managing gambling urges, improving financial health, and repairing relationships.
Lifestyle Changes: Developing healthier hobbies, exercising, and improving social relationships can also help reduce the dependency on gambling.
Professional Help: Consulting with addiction specialists or counselors who focus on gambling addiction is crucial, as they can devise a personalized treatment plan.
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