A psychiatrist may use the following treatment approaches for a gambling addiction:

• Medication. Antidepressants may be used to treat any co-existing mood or anxiety disorders. Also, lithium and other mood-stabilizing medications have been found to be effective whether or not there is co-existing bipolar disorder.
  

Some medical trials seem to indicate that antidepressants may effectively treat gambling behavior – even without an underlying mood disorder. However, further study is needed to confirm this. Other medications, including naltrexone (primarily used in treatment of alcohol and opioid abuse) and nalmefene (a medication similar to naltrexone), have shown some promise in treating gambling addiction. However, further research is needed.

• Psychotherapy. The focus of psychotherapy for gambling addiction is similar to that of depression or substance abuse – a person’s thoughts and behavior. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help identify the reasons for the gambling, confront the gambler’s defenses and stop gambling as a means to recuperate losses. This involves overcoming irrational thoughts (e.g., that a person can control chance through superstitious behavior) and skill development (e.g., learning relaxation techniques, improving social skills).

Emergency intervention may be necessary if the pathological gambler is suicidal. For friends and family members, this can include calling emergency services (911) or taking the loved one to a hospital emergency room, if necessary.

There are two national self-help groups that deal specifically with gambling addiction. Gamblers Anonymous is an abstinence-based, 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. It can help people with gambling addictions deal with their symptoms and prevent relapse. Gam-Anon is designed for family and friends of people addicted to gambling.

In addition, anyone with a gambling problem can call the National Council on Problem Gambling’s toll-free, 24-hour, confidential  phone center (1-800-522-4700) to get help for their gambling addiction.

Some research suggests that in some cases, compulsive gamblers can recover on their own without the need for treatment. However, this is controversial and only applies to a small minority of people who are pathological gamblers.