What is the diagnosis for Gambling Disorder?

A diagnosis of “gambling disorder” is based on persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior leading to significant impairment or distress, as indicated by four or more the following symptoms in a 12-month period:

• Needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement.
• Is restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
• Has made repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
• Is often preoccupied with gambling (e.g., having persistent thoughts of reliving past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get money with which to gamble).
• Often gambles when feeling distressed (e.g., helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed).
• After losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses).
• Lies to conceal the extend of involvement with gambling.
• Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling.
• Relies on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling.

The gambling behavior is not better explained by a manic episode.

A gambling disorder is rated as mild with 4-5 symptoms, moderate with 6-7 symptoms, and severe with 8-9 symptoms.