According to the fifth edition of Gabbard’s Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders, edited by Glen O. Gabbard, M.D., published by American Psychiatric Publishing, “Gambling disorder is now included in the new category of behavioral addictions in the DSM-5.” This is the first time that gambling has been placed in the same category as substance-related disorders, as both disorders share many common characteristics, including the brain origin and physiology.

Problem gambling

Gambling addiction is a serious disorder that can cause emotional, social, and legal consequences. Problem gambling can be mild, moderate, or severe, and it may get worse over time. Previously, it was referred to as pathological gambling, compulsive gambling, or impulse control disorder. However, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) recently recognized it as a distinct condition called impulse control disorder. To learn more about the condition, read on.

It is estimated that two percent of American adults meet diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling in a given year. Another four to six percent of U.S. adults may be diagnosed as problem gamblers, but do not meet the diagnostic criteria. In either case, problem gambling can cause serious financial, social, and career consequences. However, there are many treatments available for this condition. In addition to therapy, a person may also consider credit and career counseling.

Signs

Gambling is a dangerous habit that reaches a stage where an individual is preoccupied with it. He or she gambles out of boredom, distress or problems, and often returns to it. Signs of gambling addiction include a lack of concentration, excessive lying about one’s gambling activity, and the loss of significant relationships and opportunities. The gambler becomes dependent on others for money, and it’s impossible for him or her to maintain a balanced life.

Some symptoms of gambling addiction are very recognizable, including lying about where a person is, staying up late, and stealing. A person may also lie about where he or she is going and engage in accusations and manipulation. If this is the case, the gambler needs help. Signs of gambling addiction can help you recognize the person you know best. If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s time to seek help.

Signs of addiction

If you suspect that you or a loved one is addicted to gambling, you should be aware of the signs of addiction. Gambling addiction has many of the same signs as drug and alcohol addiction, including irritability, depression, and restlessness. These signs are caused by an obsession with gambling and a perception that the person must gamble in order to be happy. However, you should never assume that a person is addicted to gambling if they do not display these symptoms.

The most obvious signs of an addiction to gambling include the loss of a significant item and a tendency to lie to others. These people will lie about how much they spend on gambling, and may even borrow money from other people to finance their addiction. It is important to note that if you notice these signs, it’s time to seek professional help. Once you’ve taken the first step, it’s time to seek treatment for gambling addiction.

Treatment

If you’ve been struggling with an addiction to gambling, you may want to consider inpatient treatment. Inpatient therapy provides 24-hour supervision, intensive daily sessions, and coaching to manage your life in a new way. While inpatient treatment doesn’t cure addiction, it can set you on a path toward recovery. While staying in an inpatient facility for only 28 days may not be enough, it can interrupt your compulsion to gamble and create a new way of living.

A lot of people are struggling with this addiction for different reasons. Usually, the underlying mental health problem is the culprit. Sometimes, the gambling problem is a symptom of a deeper emotional or avoidance problem. A combination of counseling and medication can help you break the cycle and find a positive outlet. This treatment may also include financial assistance. If you’ve been unable to stop gambling on your own, you should seek professional help immediately.