Help for gambling addicts

Are you or someone you care about struggling with gambling problems? Do you feel like your thoughts are dominated by money? We explain what a gambling problem is and how you can seek help.

Gambling addiction symptoms

It can be difficult to determine if someone is addicted to gambling because there are no physical symptoms. However, the most common signs to look out for are

• Obsession - this can mean constantly talking about gambling or previous big wins and playing incessantly online or offline.
• Loss of control - can they stop once they start? Are they unable to do so even though they are losing money?
• Secrecy - hiding gambling, lying about how often they gamble, and outright denial.
• Financial problems - no money to pay bills or essentials. Creeping credit card debt or borrowing from others.
• Dysfunctional lifestyle - difficulty at work, inability to maintain relationships, lack of health care, and social isolation.
• Emotional withdrawal symptoms - the drop in dopamine can lead to irritability, anxiety, restlessness, sleep and eating disorders, and lack of sex drive.
• Gambling despite consequences - are they unable to fight the urge, despite the other issues listed here, such as financial problems?
• Illegal activities - cheating or stealing to get money for gambling indicates that the individual is in serious trouble.
• Guilt or remorse - if they express such feelings, they are aware that they have a gambling problem.
• Concerned family members and friends - loved ones have expressed concern for the affected person or for their safety.

What is gambling addiction?

We spoke with psychotherapist Lisa Bahar to learn more about gambling addiction and what help is available for those affected. According to Bahar, gambling addiction is considered a "gambling disorder" and is classified as a non-substance use disorder in the DSM-5.

The criteria are similar to those for substance use disorders and personality disorders. "Once an addiction meets the standards to be included in the DSM-5, there is evidence that the addiction has progressed to the point where it can be formally diagnosed, indicating that the person needs treatment (if they are willing) and needs to stay sober."

Bahar explained that gambling disorders can masquerade as seemingly harmless activities such as lotteries, video games, sports betting and casino games in the early stages, and that these gambling behaviors are often accompanied by other disorders such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and substance use.

The individual exhibits persistent and recurrent problematic behaviors, such as lying to hide the extent of gambling, losing money and returning to "chase" the loss, jeopardizing relationships, and relying on others to relieve financial distress. "The symptoms and criteria are classified as mild, moderate to severe, and those who feel they may have a problem probably do. Gambling activates the part of the brain that makes it hard to stop without professional help."

Is gambling considered a mental illness?

If someone gambles only moderately, with no negative effects, it is not considered a mental illness. However, if someone gambles compulsively and negatively affects themselves and others, they have likely developed a gambling addiction, which is defined in psychiatry as a "hidden" mental illness.

What does gambling do to your brain?

According to Bahar, "gambling activates the part of the brain that makes it hard to stop without professional help." Not everyone is affected in this way, but those who are feel a surge of dopamine in the body (up to ten times more than a natural reward experience) caused by stimulation of the brain's reward system.

This "thrill" is thought to spur further compulsive behavior. Over time, however, some people become accustomed to the dopamine surge, causing them to chase the feeling that the initial dopamine surge gave them and struggle with severe impulse control.

How can you stop a gambling addiction?

It takes a lot of courage to admit you have a problem and seek help. Bahar offered some valuable insights. "Support is important, including Gamblers Anonymous meetings and a therapist who specializes in gambling disorders. If you feel the need to control the addiction or behavior, the addiction or behavior controls you.