FAQ
Learn More About Compulsive Gambling
What is compulsive gambling?
Gambling Disorder, previously known as compulsive, or problem gambling, is an all-consuming emotional illness, progressive in nature, which cannot be ‘cured’ but can be arrested. For many years, compulsive gamblers were thought to suffer from a lack of ‘moral fiber’ or ‘willpower’. However, clinical studies over decades of research have come to a far different conclusion. According to the World Health Organization (ICD Code 6c50), and the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5; 312.31), Gambling Disorder is a mental health disease that is treatable. Both agree on one important fact; one’s entire life is adversely affected by the continued, escalating ‘need’ to gamble, regardless of the negative consequences, i.e. divorce, bankruptcy, criminal acts, employment issues, etc.
Is there a difference between "compulsive" and "disordered" gambling?
No. Disordered Gambling is simply the most recent clinical term in the DSM-5 to describe what was formerly known as Compulsive Gambling. They refer to the same disorder.
Who are today’s disordered gamblers?
Over the last 20 years, the internet has aided and abetted enormous growth in the gambling industry. Demographically, what was once considered a middle-aged male dominated experience now includes teens, women, and retirees as the fastest growing segments. iPhones and laptops have enabled online gambling to grow worldwide from $10 billion in 2013 to a projected $100 billion in 2023.
Are there medications to treat disordered gambling?
Currently, there are no FDA clinically approved medications to treat Gambling Disorder. However, there are some ‘off-label’ applications that have shown mixed results. Contact your primary care physician for further information.
Can I ever gamble ‘normally’ again?
Gamblers Anonymous, founded in 1957, answers this question rather succinctly, “No, the first bet to a problem gambler is like the first drink to an alcoholic. Sooner or later he or she falls into the same old destructive pattern.”