$Unique_ID{BRK01647}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Is Gambling Some Type of Disease and Can it be Treated?}
$Subject{gambling compulsion}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Gambling Some Type of Disease and Can it be Treated?


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QUESTION:  My husband has just about ruined our life and our marriage with his
gambling.  He can not be reasoned with, but needs help desperately.  Is this
some type of disease and can it be treated?

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ANSWER:  There is a good deal of debate within the medical community over
whether compulsive gambling is an actual disease.  There is, however, little
doubt that compulsive gambling is a growing problem in the United States--a
problem that may require treatment for many individuals.
     Doctors who treat compulsive gamblers do consider it a disease, and
believe it is a chronic and progressive illness.
     The patient has become obsessed with the urge to gamble and the urge
exceeds the person's control.  Eventually, this leads to disruptions in the
gambler's life, causing problems on the job, in his or her family, and legal
problems.
     Once the compulsive gambler runs out of money, he may take out illegal
loans, so that he can continue his self-destructive pattern of actions.
     This psychological affliction takes its toll physically, with the
person's eating and sleeping patterns becoming erratic.  A feeling of
helplessness and hopelessness comes over the gambler.  He may suffer acute
anxiety attacks, become severely depressed and often turns to alcohol and
drugs.  Some people use gambling to escape ordinary problems of life.  They
use it as a way to overcome loneliness and avoid rejection.
     Fortunately, compulsive gambling is considered a "treatable" condition,
and the treatment has a high success rate.  In severe cases, where the gambler
may become suicidal, hospitalization is necessary.  Treatment focuses on
helping the patient stop gambling--all gambling--as well as all other
addictive behaviors.
     Many gamblers can be treated as outpatients, with psychotherapy.
Self-help groups like Gamblers Anonymous are helpful.  It is also very useful
for family members to join groups such as Gam-Anon.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
