Community
Pathological Gambling
An impulse control disorder that involves the uncontrollable impulse to gamble, irrespective of the interference the behaviour has on the individual's life.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
Get help now
If you are thinking about ending your life or hurting yourself, you do not have to carry it alone. Help exists right now, and reaching for it is not an overreaction.
- In the US: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Free, confidential, answered 24 hours a day. You can also chat at 988lifeline.org.
- Outside the US: call your local emergency number - 911 in the US, 999 in the UK, 112 in the EU - or find the crisis line for your country at findahelpline.com.
- If you have already hurt yourself or taken something: call emergency services now. Do not wait to see whether it gets worse.
What happens when you call - and what to do if you are worried about someone else.
When to seek help
Seek medical help right away if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any symptom that feels life-threatening. This community is for peer support and education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
Many people enjoy gambling, whether it's betting on a horse or playing poker on the Internet. Most people who gamble don't have a problem, but some lose control of their gambling. Signs of problem gambling include: Always thinking about gambling Lying about gambling Spending work or family time gambling Feeling bad after you gamble, but not quitting Gambling with money you need for other things If you have concerns about your gambling, ask for help. Your health care provider can work with you to find the treatment that's best for you. NIH: National Institutes of Health
Resources
Join the Pathological Gambling community
Talk with people who understand, share what helps, and find support from others living with pathological gambling. Private, moderated, and free.
Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.