Gambling Addiction and OCD: Exploring the Connection

Gambling addiction is an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the negative consequences. Experts sometimes refer to this behavioral disorder as a gambling disorder. It's possible that gambling addiction could be linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

It's not just based on a lack of control. If you suffer from both OCD and gambling addiction, treating both can help you overcome both problems. You can work with a mental health professional to determine the best course of treatment.

What are Gambling Addiction (Disorder) and OCD?

Gambling Addiction a.k.a. Gambling Disorder

Gambling addiction is a branch of compulsive gambling. Gambling disorder can develop into an addiction, but that's not the case with all individuals. The reason why gambling is so addictive is because it triggers the brain's reward system, similar to drugs and alcohol.

Gambling addiction is a serious disorder that can impact an individual and their social relationships. While it can be difficult to overcome a gambling addiction, many individuals have found success with professional treatment.

OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a lifelong mental health disorder in which an individual experiences obsessive thoughts and repetitive patterns. These symptoms can interfere with one's daily life and responsibilities. Fortunately, treatment can help with managing symptoms and improving one's mental health. Treatment is also available for OCD and gambling addictions.

Is there a connection between Gambling Addiction and OCD?

Researchers at the Yale Veterans Affairs Medical Center found a link between obsessive-control disorder and gambling addiction. Individuals who are diagnosed with OCD are more likely to suffer from compulsive gambling. In addition, data compiled from the Colorado Military Veterans Project noticed these links between OCD and gambling.

Forty-two percent of individuals with OCD also reported having a gambling disorder. The Yale study also noticed that genetics played a factor in the link between OCD and gambling. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), OCD is common among individuals who struggle with problem gambling.

How common are comorbidities in individuals with Gambling Addiction?

Research found that 96% of individuals who struggle with gambling addiction might suffer from at least one co-occurring mental health disorder. The average individual might have up to five disorders throughout their life. This research also found that individuals with gambling addiction are more likely to struggle with a mental health disorder than individuals without.

Gambling addiction can also co-occur with other behavioral health disorders. This can include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, medications used to treat some of these behavioral disorders can increase impulse behavior, especially when it comes to problem gambling.

Can Gambling Addiction and OCD be treated together?

Yes, gambling addiction and OCD can be treated together. According to previous research, treatment that addresses both conditions is more likely to be effective than treatment that treats gambling addiction alone. Experts recommend mental health programs that treat co-occurring conditions, as they have a higher success rate. Therapy and medication are often used together to treat both conditions.

What medications are used to treat OCD and Gambling Addiction?

There is no FDA-approved medication for gambling addiction. However, medication therapy can bel effective in treating the urge and frequency of gambling. Common medications used to treat gambling addiction might include antipsychotics, opioid receptor antagonists, mood stabilizers, and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Antidepressants are sometimes the first course of treatment for some individuals with OCD. One study found that opioid receptor antagonists were effective in most patients. Some patients were also prescribed fluoxetine, an FDA-approved antidepressant that treats OCD. It had favorable results when used with risperidone, an antipsychotic medication used to help with certain mental health conditions.

Treatment Options for Gambling Addiction and OCD

Treatment for gambling addiction and OCD might require visiting a facility several times per week, which could last several hours at a time. Depending on the condition's severity, treatment could take place in an inpatient or outpatient program. Most mental health programs include a combination of the following:

Individual or group therapy
Family therapy or couples therapy
Holistic treatments such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness
Medication

While there are similarities between OCD and gambling addiction, they are different conditions. Individuals should look for comprehensive treatment that addresses both conditions.

Virtual treatment is also available for gambling addiction and OCD. Receive individualized help from Birches Health. They have licensed clinicians who are knowledgeable in the areas of gambling addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder. This online platform offers online therapy, which you can do in the comfort of your own home. Recovery starts with a free and confidential assessment.

Here are some ways to get started with Birches Health:

You can also call us at 833-483-3838 or email us at hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with our Birches team as soon as possible.