Gambling addiction is a serious impulse-control disorder that shares many characteristics with substance use disorders. While it may not lead to immediate physical harm like drug overdoses, its progressive nature can be equally destructive over time.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a chronic brain disease affecting reward, motivation, and memory circuits. This dysfunction manifests through:

• Inability to consistently abstain
• Impaired behavioral control
• Intense cravings
• Diminished recognition of problems
• Dysfunctional emotional responses

Compulsive gamblers exhibit these classic addiction traits:

• Cannot control gambling impulses
• Continue despite negative consequences
• Neglect basic needs and responsibilities
• Need increasing amounts to achieve the same effect
• Experience withdrawal-like symptoms
• Resort to illegal activities to fund gambling

The rise of online gambling has intensified the problem:

• 24/7 accessibility via smartphones
• No need to visit physical locations
• Increased risk of relapse for recovering addicts
• Easier to hide the addiction from others

Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Substance use disorders
• ADD/ADHD
• Mood disorders
• Clinical anxiety
• Depression

Help is available for those struggling with gambling addiction. Professional treatment programs offer support and strategies for recovery, and many have experience treating both gambling addiction and co-occurring disorders.

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