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If you or someone you love is struggling with a gambling problem, you’re not alone—and there is help. Gambling disorder, also known as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling, is a serious but treatable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether the issue is sports betting, slot machines, or card games, the consequences of excessive gambling can impact nearly every aspect of life: relationships, finances, mental health, and overall well-being.

But recovery is possible. Understanding how gambling disorder is treated can be a critical first step toward hope and healing. This guide walks through treatment options, what to expect in therapy, and how to find support for gambling-related problems.

If you or someone you love needs help to address gambling addiction or other mental health conditions, find treatment at Eleve Behavioral Health. Explore our programs or schedule an appointment by reaching out to our specialists today.

What Is Gambling Disorder?

Gambling disorder is classified as a behavioral addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. Unlike occasional gambling, this condition involves maladaptive gambling behavior that persists despite serious negative consequences.

Key signs of gambling disorder may include:

Preoccupation with gambling
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to stop gambling
Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same thrill
Lying to hide the extent of the gambling behavior
Jeopardizing relationships, work, or education due to gambling
Chasing losses after losing money gambling

Problem gambling exists on a spectrum. Problem gambling behavior may not meet the full criteria for a clinical diagnosis, but still causes significant distress or disruption. Early intervention is critical.

Risk Factors and Mental Health Connections

Studies suggest several risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing a gambling disorder.

These include:

Male gender
Early exposure to gambling
Easy access to gambling opportunities
Certain personality traits, like impulsivity or sensation-seeking
A family history of addictive disorders
Co-occurring mental health problems, such as mood disorders, bipolar disorder, or substance misuse

Mental health issues and gambling often go hand in hand. People may start gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression. Over time, however, gambling can worsen these issues, leading to a dangerous cycle.

How Is Gambling Disorder Treated?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to treating a gambling addiction. Instead, treatment is most effective when it’s personalized based on your needs, problem gambling severity, and any co-occurring psychiatric disorders.

Here are the most common, research-supported treatment approaches.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy is widely considered the gold standard for treating gambling disorder. CBT helps people:

Identify and challenge cognitive distortions (such as the belief that they can “win back” their losses)
Develop healthier ways to cope with stress or negative emotions
Change compulsive habits by examining the triggers for excessive gambling

Through cognitive restructuring, individuals learn to break the link between emotional discomfort and the urge to gamble.

Motivational Interviewing and Enhancement

Motivational interviewing (MI) and motivational enhancement therapy are brief, evidence-based techniques that help clients explore their ambivalence about change. These approaches are especially helpful for those who are not yet sure they want to give up gambling.

Rather than confronting the person, MI fosters a nonjudgmental conversation to enhance internal motivation. This can be the starting point for deeper therapeutic approaches.

Group Therapy and Peer Support

Group therapy offers a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, reduce shame, and gain insight. Many people find strength in peer support through programs like Gamblers Anonymous, which is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous.

In these support groups, members work through 12-step programs and offer encouragement to each other. This connection can be a powerful part of recovery.

Family Therapy and Support for Loved Ones

Family therapy can help rebuild trust, improve communication, and address the relational damage caused by a gambling problem. Concerned significant others and family members may also need education and support for their own well-being.

Loved ones often carry the burden of money problems, emotional stress, and betrayal. Involving the family in treatment is vital for long-term healing.

Inpatient and Residential Treatment

For severe cases, inpatient treatment or residential programs provide structured environments free from gambling opportunities. These programs offer intensive therapy, relapse prevention planning, and 24/7 support.

This level of care may be appropriate for people with a long history of repeated unsuccessful efforts to stop gambling, or those with co-occurring mental disorders that require close monitoring.

Pharmacological Treatments

Although there’s no FDA-approved medication specifically for gambling disorder, medication trials show that certain drugs can help reduce urges.

These include:

Mood stabilizers (for people with bipolar disorder or severe mood disorders)
Opioid antagonists, like naltrexone, which may reduce cravings
Antidepressants or other medications, depending on co-occurring mental health conditions

Pharmacological treatments are typically used in combination with therapy and under the supervision of a mental health provider or psychiatrist.

Brief Treatment Options

For those at lower risk or with mild symptoms, brief treatment and self-help treatments can be effective.

These might include:

Guided workbooks
Online CBT programs
Check-ins with a mental health professional
Psychoeducational sessions about gambling habits and risks

These options can be particularly helpful for people who are hesitant about entering formal treatment.

Developing a Personalized Treatment Plan

An effective treatment plan considers the whole person: their mental, emotional, social, and financial needs. Treatment typically involves a range of therapeutic services that address the roots of addiction and provide practical tools to manage it for life.

This may involve:

Screening for co-occurring psychiatric disorders
Addressing substance misuse if present
Exploring the effects of gambling on career, education, and finances
Involving family members or concerned significant others
Setting achievable goals to reduce or stop gambling

Whether you choose individual counseling, group therapy, or inpatient treatment, the process typically begins with an assessment from a qualified mental health professional or addiction counselor.

Relapse Prevention and Long-Term Recovery

Recovery is not just about stopping the behavior—it’s about building a life that makes gambling less appealing.

Relapse prevention strategies may include:

Identifying personal triggers (e.g., boredom, stress, access to cash)
Building new hobbies to replace gambling
Learning coping skills for difficult emotions
Strengthening social connections that support recovery

Like other addictive disorders, gambling disorder requires ongoing attention. Many people benefit from continuing care, peer support, or check-ins with their therapist even after they stop gambling.

Final Thoughts

Gambling addiction is a complex but treatable condition. Whether you’re experiencing the pain of losing money gambling, coping with mental health issues, or watching a loved one struggle, help is available.

By understanding how gambling disorder is treated, you can take informed steps toward recovery. With the proper treatment approaches, support, and determination, it’s possible to reclaim your life and build a future free from the grip of gambling.

If you’re ready to explore your options, connect with a licensed mental health professional at Eleve Behavioral Health today. Contact our intake specialists to explore our treatment or recovery support programs, or to schedule an initial assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Treating Gambling Disorder

1. Can someone recover from a gambling disorder without professional treatment?

While some individuals reduce or stop gambling on their own, most benefit from professional support, especially when gambling is linked to other mental health problems or has significantly disrupted their lives. Self-help tools and support groups can aid recovery, but structured therapy often improves outcomes and reduces the risk of relapse.

2. How can I talk to a loved one about their gambling problem without making things worse?

Approach the conversation with empathy, not blame. Use “I” statements (e.g., “I’m concerned about how gambling is affecting you”) and avoid ultimatums. Encourage them to seek help and offer support in finding a therapist or calling the National Problem Gambling Helpline. Timing and tone matter—choose a calm, private moment.

3. Is gambling disorder covered by insurance?

Yes, in many cases. Because the American Psychiatric Association recognizes gambling disorder, it may be covered under behavioral health benefits. Coverage depends on the provider and plan, so it’s essential to contact your insurance company directly to verify what services are included.

4. Can gambling addiction affect teenagers or older adults?

Yes. Gambling affects people across all age groups. Teens may be exposed through online games or sports betting, while older adults may turn to gambling due to isolation or grief. Each group faces unique challenges and may require tailored support and treatment approaches.

5. What if gambling doesn’t involve money, like fantasy sports or in-game purchases?

Even when not involving real money, behaviors that mimic gambling—like betting on fantasy leagues or spending excessively on loot boxes—can still become problematic. These behaviors can reinforce the same patterns seen in gambling disorder and may warrant intervention if they lead to distress or impaired functioning.

6. How do I find a therapist who specializes in gambling disorder?

Start by searching directories through reputable mental health organizations or asking your primary care provider for a referral. Look for clinicians trained in cognitive behavioral therapy and experienced in treating behavioral addictions. You can also call 1-800-GAMBLER to find specialists near you.

How Is Gambling Disorder Treated? What to Expect When Getting Help