Buying Sprees and Gambling

• Do you gamble for money frequently?
• Do you regularly bet on sports games?
• Have you ever used a bookie?
• Do you regularly use slot machines or other "devices"?
• Do you bet on the lottery frequently?
• Did anyone in your immediate family have a problem with gambling?
• Do you feel guilty for gambling?
• Have you borrowed money to gamble?
• Have you neglected paying your mortgage or food bills to gamble?
• Have you missed work because of gambling?
• Have you ever overextended, gambling more money than you actually had?
• Has gambling ever led you to consume alcohol or recreational drugs?
• Do you receive criticism from a spouse or friend for gambling?
• Have you stolen money to gamble?
• Have you prostituted yourself to get money for gambling?
• Have you had to borrow money to pay back gambling debts?

Treatment goals for Bipolar II patients who are pathologic gamblers are consistent with treatment for major affective disorders, alcoholism or substance abuse, in that the psychiatrist works on restoring to the patient a normal way of thinking and living. Behavioral therapy is used to improve the patient's social skills, and cognitive-behavioral therapy may help the patient prevent relapse. Intervention to reduce the risk of suicide is also necessary.

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