Signs & Symptoms
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fifth Edition (DSM-V) has nine criteria for risky gambling behavior. These criteria categorize how severe an individuals gambling is. An individual must partake in any of these activities in the past 12-months for appropriate diagnosis. The categories are defined as:
- Mild = 4-5
- Moderate = 6-7
- Severe = 8-9
Criteria
- Is often preoccupied with gambling.
- A need to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired level of excitement.
- Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
- Feels restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling.
- Gambles when feeling distressed.
- After losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (chases one’s losses).
- Lies to family member, therapist or others to conceal the extent of one’s involvement with gambling.
- Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship, education or career opportunity because of gambling.
- Relies on others to provide money to relieve a desperate financial situation caused by gambling.