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.