Health and Recovery Services Administration

This paper describes the diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling and screening methods for identifying individuals with gambling problems. Problem and pathological gambling are more likely to occur in certain populations, such as among individuals with substance use disorders, psychiatric conditions, and medical problems. Despite the prevalence rate of this disorder, few pathological gamblers seek treatment. This paper reviews different forms of treatments that have been applied to gamblers, along with evidence of their efficacy. Clinical guidelines for identifying and treating gambling problems are outlined