# Is compulsive gambling classified as a mental illness? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-compulsive-gambling-a-mental-illness Language: en Category: mental_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.285Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.285Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/is-compulsive-gambling-a-mental-illness Yes, compulsive gambling (gambling disorder) is classified as a mental disorder. This disorder is characterized by an inability to resist the urge to gamble, even when the consequences are clearly negative. The brain reacts to this urge in a way similar to how it reacts to alcohol or illicit drug addiction [\[3\]](). Although compulsive gambling shares some features with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is considered a distinct condition in the classification of mental illnesses. ## Signs and Symptoms of Compulsive Gambling The signs of gambling addiction include a set of behaviors that indicate a loss of control over the gambling habit. According to the American Psychiatric Association, gambling disorder is diagnosed when four or more of the following symptoms are present [\[3\]](): - Feeling distressed or restless when attempting to reduce or quit gambling. - Gambling to escape problems or feelings of sadness and anxiety. - Increasing gambling amounts to try to recover previous losses. - Losing a job, relationship, educational, or career opportunity because of gambling. - Lying about the amount of time or money spent on gambling. - Multiple unsuccessful attempts to reduce or quit gambling. - The need to borrow money due to gambling losses. - The need to gamble with larger amounts to feel the thrill. - Spending a lot of time thinking about gambling, such as recalling past experiences or ways to obtain more money to gamble. People with compulsive gambling may feel ashamed and often try to hide their problem from others [\[3\]](). ## Impacts and Complications Compulsive gambling can lead to serious and numerous problems in an individual's life. Potential complications include severe financial problems, job loss, committing crimes or fraud, and damaging family and social relationships [\[3\]](). This disorder can worsen over time if left untreated and may lead to other issues such as alcohol and illicit drug abuse, anxiety, depression, and even suicide attempts [\[3\]](). ## Treatment Options and Next Steps Treatment for compulsive gambling begins with acknowledging the problem, which can be difficult for those affected who often deny their need for treatment. People with compulsive gambling often seek treatment only when others pressure them [\[3\]](). Effective treatment options include: - **Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):** This type of therapy helps individuals identify and change the thought patterns and behaviors that lead to compulsive gambling. - **Self-Help Groups:** Such as Gamblers Anonymous, which relies on a 12-step program similar to other addiction treatment programs [\[3\]](). - **Medications:** Some early studies have shown that antidepressants and opioid antagonists (such as naltrexone) may help treat the symptoms of compulsive gambling, although the effectiveness of these drugs varies from person to person [\[3\]](). It is important not to discontinue any treatment without consulting a healthcare provider [\[1\]](). If you suspect that you or someone you know is suffering from symptoms of compulsive gambling, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional or a mental health specialist [\[3\]](). A primary care provider can perform an initial screening and refer you to a specialist. You can learn more about this topic by visiting [Compulsive Gambling: Addiction Signs, Impacts, and Treatment Options (Arabic)](). ## When to Seek Emergency Help? If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 [\[3\]](). This line provides confidential support 24/7. In life-threatening situations, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room immediately [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Compulsive gambling]() - [Help for Mental Illnesses]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-compulsive-gambling-a-mental-illness#answer