D'Amore is Now an Approved Treatment Provider for Kaiser
The digital revolution has transformed gambling from a destination-based activity into a 24/7 accessible behavior that lives in our pockets. With the proliferation of online casinos, sports betting apps, and digital gaming platforms, millions of Americans now face unprecedented exposure to gambling opportunities—and the mental health consequences are becoming increasingly apparent.
At D’Amore Mental Health in Orange County, we recognize that online gambling addiction rarely exists in isolation. Instead, it often develops alongside or exacerbates existing mental health conditions, creating complex challenges that require comprehensive, integrated treatment approaches. Understanding the intricate relationship between online gambling and mental health is crucial for identifying warning signs, seeking appropriate help, and achieving lasting recovery.
The landscape of gambling has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Since the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to overturn the federal ban on sports betting, over 30 states have legalized some form of online gambling. Mobile betting apps have generated billions in revenue, with the American Gaming Association reporting that commercial gaming revenue exceeded $60 billion in 2023 alone.
What makes online gambling particularly concerning from a mental health perspective is its accessibility and design. Unlike traditional casinos that require physical presence, online gambling platforms are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, directly through smartphones and computers. These platforms employ sophisticated psychological tactics—including variable reward schedules, near-miss experiences, and personalized algorithms—specifically designed to maximize engagement and spending.
The demographics of online gambling reveal concerning trends. Young adults aged 18-34 represent the fastest-growing segment of online gamblers, with many beginning their gambling behaviors through seemingly harmless activities like fantasy sports or social casino games. Research from the National Council on Problem Gambling indicates that individuals who engage in online gambling are more likely to develop problematic gambling behaviors compared to those who only gamble in person, partly due to the isolated nature of the activity and the ease of chasing losses.
The impact of online gambling on mental health extends far beyond financial consequences. When gambling transitions from entertainment to compulsion, it fundamentally alters brain chemistry, disrupts emotional stability, and damages the social connections that support psychological well-being. Understanding these multifaceted effects is essential for recognizing when gambling has become problematic and why professional intervention is often necessary for recovery.
Online gambling triggers the same reward pathways in the brain as substance use disorders. When someone places a bet or anticipates a win, the brain releases dopamine—the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. According to research published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over time, the brain requires increasingly intense gambling experiences to achieve the same dopamine response, leading to tolerance and escalation of gambling behaviors.
This neurological process doesn’t occur in isolation. For individuals with existing mental health conditions like depression or anxiety, gambling can become a maladaptive coping mechanism. The temporary escape and excitement gambling provides can mask underlying emotional pain, creating a dangerous cycle where mental health symptoms drive gambling behavior, which in turn worsens mental health.
The psychological toll of online gambling addiction extends far beyond financial stress. Individuals struggling with problematic online gambling often experience:
Increased Anxiety and Depression: The financial pressures, shame, and loss of control associated with gambling addiction significantly elevate rates of anxiety and depression. Studies published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) show that individuals with gambling disorders are twice as likely to experience major depressive episodes.
Cognitive Distortions: Problem gamblers develop distorted thinking patterns, including the illusion of control, selective memory for wins over losses, and the gambler’s fallacy—the belief that past results influence future outcomes in random events.
Emotional Dysregulation: The highs and lows of gambling create an emotional roller coaster that impairs the ability to regulate emotions effectively. This instability can strain relationships, impact work performance, and diminish overall quality of life.
Identity and Self-Worth Issues: As gambling losses mount and consequences accumulate, individuals often experience profound shame and a crisis of identity. The gap between their values and their behavior creates cognitive dissonance that fuels further mental health deterioration.
Online gambling’s solitary nature compounds its mental health effects. Unlike social forms of gambling that occur in public spaces, online gambling often happens in isolation, hidden from friends and family. This secrecy breeds shame and prevents early intervention, allowing problems to escalate before loved ones become aware of the issue.
Relationships suffer as trust erodes through financial deception and broken promises. Family members may experience their own mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and symptoms similar to those seen in families affected by substance use disorders. The ripple effects extend to children, who may experience emotional neglect, financial instability, and increased risk of developing their own mental health or addiction issues.
The relationship between online gambling addiction and mental health disorders is complex and bidirectional. Mental health conditions can increase vulnerability to gambling problems, while gambling addiction can trigger or worsen psychiatric symptoms. This intricate interplay creates unique treatment challenges that require specialized, integrated approaches. Understanding these connections helps explain why addressing both gambling and mental health simultaneously is crucial for sustainable recovery.
The relationship between depression and online gambling is bidirectional and complex. Individuals with depression may turn to gambling as a form of self-medication, seeking the temporary mood boost that comes from the excitement of betting. However, the inevitable losses and consequences of gambling deepen depressive symptoms, creating a vicious cycle.
Research indicates that up to 76% of individuals with gambling disorders also meet criteria for major depressive disorder at some point in their lives. The combination of these conditions significantly increases suicide risk, with studies from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) showing that individuals with gambling problems are 15 times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population.
Anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with problematic gambling behaviors. The uncertainty and excitement of gambling can temporarily distract from anxiety symptoms, but the financial and emotional consequences ultimately intensify anxiety. Specific patterns include:
Social Anxiety: Isolation and avoidance of social situations due to shame about gambling
Individuals with bipolar disorder face particular vulnerability to gambling problems, especially during manic or hypomanic episodes. The impulsivity, grandiosity, and poor judgment characteristic of manic states can fuel excessive gambling. Studies from the International OCD Foundation and psychiatric research suggest that up to 40% of individuals with bipolar disorder experience problems with gambling at some point in their lives.
During manic episodes, individuals may believe they have special gambling skills or are destined to win, leading to catastrophic financial decisions. The subsequent depressive episodes are often intensified by the consequences of manic gambling behavior, creating additional treatment challenges.
Trauma survivors may use online gambling as an escape mechanism, seeking to numb emotional pain or create a sense of control. The dissociative aspects of intense gambling—losing track of time and disconnecting from reality—can provide temporary relief from trauma symptoms. However, this avoidance strategy ultimately prevents proper trauma processing and can retraumatize individuals through the chaos and loss of control that problem gambling creates.
Certain personality disorders increase vulnerability to online gambling addiction:
Recognizing the warning signs of online gambling addiction is crucial for early intervention. The American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5 outlines specific criteria for gambling disorder. These indicators often develop gradually, making them easy to rationalize or minimize:
Digital gambling presents distinct challenges that differentiate it from traditional gambling venues. The intersection of technology, psychology, and constant accessibility creates a perfect storm for addiction development. These unique characteristics not only facilitate problem gambling but also complicate recovery efforts, requiring specialized strategies and interventions tailored to the digital age.
Unlike traditional gambling venues with operating hours and physical boundaries, online gambling platforms never close. This 24/7 availability makes it extremely difficult for individuals to create barriers between themselves and gambling opportunities. The convenience of gambling from home, work, or anywhere with internet access removes natural cooling-off periods that might otherwise interrupt problematic behavior.
Online gambling platforms employ sophisticated psychological techniques to maximize engagement:
The private nature of online gambling allows problems to develop undetected. Without the social controls present in physical gambling environments, individuals can gamble for hours without anyone knowing. This isolation eliminates natural intervention points and allows denial to flourish.
Online gambling typically moves much faster than traditional gambling. Slot games can be played every few seconds, sports bets can be placed instantly, and online poker hands deal rapidly. This accelerated pace means individuals can lose money much more quickly, intensifying both the addiction cycle and its consequences.
Effective treatment for online gambling addiction requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the addictive behavior and underlying mental health conditions. Modern treatment modalities combine evidence-based therapies, medication management when appropriate, and family involvement to create a holistic recovery framework. At D’Amore Mental Health, we recognize that successful outcomes depend on treating the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.
At D’Amore Mental Health, we understand that successful treatment must address both gambling addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions simultaneously. Our integrated approach ensures that all aspects of an individual’s mental health are considered and treated comprehensively.
Our treatment philosophy recognizes that gambling addiction rarely exists in isolation. By addressing underlying mental health conditions—whether depression, anxiety, trauma, or other disorders—we help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce the likelihood of relapse. Learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment approach.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Our therapists use CBT to help individuals identify and challenge the distorted thinking patterns that fuel both gambling behavior and mental health symptoms. Clients learn to recognize triggers, develop coping strategies, and restructure thoughts that perpetuate the gambling cycle. The VA’s National Center for PTSD has documented CBT’s effectiveness for treating both gambling and co-occurring conditions.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): For individuals struggling with emotional regulation, DBT provides essential skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills are particularly valuable for those whose gambling serves as an emotional escape.
Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing the strong connection between trauma and addictive behaviors, our trauma-informed approach ensures that treatment addresses underlying traumatic experiences that may fuel gambling behavior.
Motivational Interviewing: This client-centered approach helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about change, building intrinsic motivation for recovery.
When appropriate, psychiatric medication can play a crucial role in treating co-occurring disorders. Our psychiatric team carefully evaluates each client to determine whether medication might help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, or address other mental health symptoms that contribute to gambling behavior. Our medication management program ensures safe, effective treatment. According to the FDA, medications that may be considered include:
Gambling addiction affects entire families, and recovery is most successful when loved ones are involved in the treatment process. Our family therapy programs help:
Learn more about our D’Amore Family Program and how we support families throughout the recovery journey.
Recovery from online gambling addiction requires practical tools and strategies to navigate cravings and high-risk situations. While the urge to gamble may feel overwhelming, evidence-based techniques can help individuals regain control and maintain abstinence. These strategies range from immediate interventions for acute cravings to long-term lifestyle changes that support sustained recovery.
When gambling urges arise, having immediate strategies can prevent relapse:
Recovery from online gambling addiction often requires a complete reimagination of one’s relationship with technology. Since smartphones and computers serve as the primary vehicles for online gambling, establishing healthy digital boundaries becomes essential for sustained recovery. This process involves not eliminating technology entirely but rather developing intentional, mindful usage patterns that support rather than undermine mental health.
Recovery from online gambling addiction often requires reevaluating one’s entire relationship with technology. This doesn’t mean avoiding technology altogether but rather developing mindful, intentional use patterns. Strategies include:
Replacing gambling with healthier online activities can support recovery:
Preventing online gambling addiction and identifying problems early can dramatically improve outcomes and reduce the devastating impacts on individuals and families. Effective prevention requires targeted approaches for at-risk populations, community-wide education initiatives, and systemic changes that prioritize public health over profits. By understanding risk factors and implementing protective strategies, we can reduce the incidence of gambling-related harm.
Certain groups face elevated risk for online gambling problems and require targeted prevention efforts:
Young Adults: Education about the risks of online gambling should begin early, addressing the normalization of gambling in sports culture and social media. The National Endowment for Financial Education provides resources for financial literacy that includes gambling awareness. Schools and universities can implement screening programs and provide resources for students showing early signs of problematic gambling. Learn more about mental health in college students.
Individuals with Mental Health Conditions: Mental health providers should routinely screen for gambling behaviors, particularly in clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or substance use disorders. Early identification allows for intervention before gambling becomes entrenched.
Athletes and Sports Fans: The integration of gambling into sports culture requires specific attention to helping individuals maintain healthy boundaries between fandom and betting. Read more about life after sports and mental health.
Reducing stigma and increasing awareness about online gambling addiction requires community-wide efforts:
Recognizing when professional intervention is needed can be lifesaving. Consider seeking help if you or a loved one experiences:
Recovery from online gambling addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders is possible. At D’Amore Mental Health, we’ve witnessed countless individuals reclaim their lives from the grip of gambling addiction. Our comprehensive treatment approach addresses not just the gambling behavior but the underlying mental health conditions that fuel and perpetuate the addiction cycle.
Located in Orange County, California, D’Amore Mental Health offers multiple levels of care to meet individuals wherever they are in their recovery journey. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) provides intensive daily treatment while allowing clients to return home each evening. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers flexible scheduling for those maintaining work or family responsibilities. For those requiring 24-hour support, our residential treatment program provides a structured, supportive environment for healing.
Our multidisciplinary team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and support staff who understand the complex interplay between gambling addiction and mental health. We create individualized treatment plans that address each person’s unique needs, combining evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches like mindfulness, yoga therapy, and experiential therapy.
If you or someone you love is struggling with online gambling and mental health challenges, you don’t have to face this battle alone. D’Amore Mental Health is here to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care needed for lasting recovery.
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer questions, verify insurance benefits, and help you take the first step toward healing. We accept most major insurance plans and are in-network with providers including Kaiser Permanente, Anthem, United Healthcare, and others. You can easily verify your insurance online.
Recovery begins with reaching out. Contact D’Amore Mental Health today at (714) 868-7593 to learn how our integrated treatment approach can help you or your loved one break free from online gambling addiction and achieve lasting mental wellness.
If you’re in crisis or need immediate support:
For more information about warning signs of suicide or suicide prevention, visit our resources section.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. With proper treatment and support, recovery from online gambling addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions is not just possible—it’s probable. At D’Amore Mental Health, we’re committed to walking alongside you on your journey to recovery, providing the tools, support, and hope needed to build a fulfilling life free from the constraints of addiction.
Learn more about The D’Amore Difference and how our unique approach, including our Build Me Up Program and Gracious Redundancy methodology, can support your recovery journey.
American Gaming Association. (2024). State of the states 2024: The AGA survey of the commercial casino industry. https://www.americangaming.org/
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/gambling-disorder
Crisis Text Line. (2024). Text HOME to 741741. https://www.crisistextline.org/
Food and Drug Administration. (2024). Medications for mental health disorders. https://www.fda.gov/
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International OCD Foundation. (2024). OCD and related disorders information. https://iocdf.org/
National Center for Responsible Gaming. (2024). Advancing research and education on gambling disorders. https://www.ncrg.org/
National Council on Problem Gambling. (2024). Help and treatment resources. https://www.ncpgambling.org/
National Council on Problem Gambling. (2024). National problem gambling helpline: 1-800-522-4700. https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/help-by-state/
National Endowment for Financial Education. (2024). Financial literacy and gambling awareness resources. https://www.nefe.org/
National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Mental health information and statistics. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024). The neuroscience of addiction. https://nida.nih.gov/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). National helpline: 1-800-662-4357. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024). Problem gambling and mental health statistics. https://www.samhsa.gov/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2024). National Center for PTSD: Treatment essentials. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. (2024). Call or text 988. https://988lifeline.org/
Jamie Mantel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with a Psy.D. in psychology. Jamie has worked for non-profits for over 20 years working with agencies, as well as her private practice in Huntington Beach, California.
