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The following is the diagnostic criteria from the DSM-IV for 312.31 (Pathological Gambling):
Persistent and recurrent maladaptive gambling behavior as indicated by at least five of the following:
- is preoccupied with gambling (e.g., preoccupied with reliving past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning the next venture, or thinking of ways to get money with which to gamble)
- needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement
- has repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
- is restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling
- gambles as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving a dysphoric mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.
- after losing money gambling, often returns another day in order to get even ("chasing" one's losses)
- lies to family members, therapist, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling
- has committed illegal acts, such as forgery, fraud, theft, or embezzlement, in order to finance 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 a desperate financial situation caused by gambling
If you or someone you know or love exhibits some of these traits, please seek help. An excellent source for help is Gamblers Anonymous for the gambler, or Gam-Anon for the family and friends.
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