Online betting and gambling addiction
सट्टा और जुआ
Gambling changes the brain's reward system much like drugs. The urge to 'win back' losses keeps people trapped.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Chasing losses with bigger bets
- Borrowing, selling valuables, hiding debts
- Lying to family about money
- Restlessness when trying to stop
- Low mood, hopelessness after losses
Causes
- Easy access to betting apps and fantasy games
- Early wins, financial stress, impulsivity
Risk factors
- Online betting apps, fantasy sports and "satta"
- Alcohol use, ADHD, depression or money stress
Dependence, 'withdrawal' and relapse
- Needing to bet larger amounts for the same excitement is a sign of dependence.
- When stopping, restlessness, irritability and intense urges to 'win it back' are common; debt can bring hopelessness — suicide risk must be asked about.
- Relapse risk is highest around salary days, big matches and festivals. Self-exclusion, blocking apps and money controls reduce it.
How it is diagnosed
- Chasing losses, borrowing or lying to gamble, failed attempts to stop
- Assessment of debt, family impact and suicide risk
Classification: ICD-10 F63.0 · ICD-11 6C50
Treatment options
- 1CBT focused on gambling thoughts and urges
- 2Financial safeguards with family (limits, blocking apps)
- 3Treating depression and suicide risk
- 4Medicines to reduce urges in some cases
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT for gambling urges and thinking errors
- Financial counselling and self-exclusion from betting apps
Guidance for family
- Do not repay gambling debts without a treatment plan
- Temporarily control access to money and cards, with agreement
When to see a psychiatrist
- Debts are growing
- Thoughts of self-harm due to losses — seek help today
- Family conflict over money
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is online betting addiction real?
Yes. Gambling disorder is a recognised mental health condition.
Will anyone else find out about my treatment?
No. Treatment is confidential under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Information is not shared with employers, police or anyone else without your consent.
The person refuses treatment. Can the family consult first?
Yes. Families can consult to learn how to motivate the person without fights (CRAFT approach) and how to handle withdrawal safely.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.