Do problem/pathological gamblers ever have co-occuring disorders?
Yes. In fact, many gamblers have substance abuse and/or mental health disorders. Clinicians must be able to identify presenting disorders and screen for others. National averages report that over half of pathological gamblers experience substance abuse or dependency. Every substance abuse client should be screened and educated about problematic gambling behavior since cross addictions in recovery is a high risk. Additional concerns include high levels of anxiety, depression and suicide risk. Extreme circumstances increase the suicide rate for pathological gamblers to six times that of the general public. All behavioral health clinicians should be aware that people suffering from gambling addiction often present for financial assistance or mental health care first. What are some similarities and differences between substance abuse and compulsive gambling? Pathological gambling is a progressive but hidden addiction with few visual or physical indicators and no real overdose point. Money
