Gambling disorder in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A case report

Background

The growth of internet technology has increased gambling activities, particularly among adolescents. Adolescence is critical for developing addictive behaviors like gambling disorder (GD), which can have serious social, psychological, and financial consequences. GD is also known to co-occur with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and impulsivity is considered a risk factor for GD. Despite the rising rates of gambling and related problems among young people, research on adolescent GD is limited, and there is a lack of research on the link between ADHD and GD compared to other addictive disorders.

Case description

We describe a case report of GD in an adolescent with ADHD who lost more than twice a family's annual income by online gambling in a year and developed depressive symptoms secondarily. We briefly discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up process.

Conclusion

The case report highlights the link between GD in adolescents with ADHD, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment addressing co-occurring ADHD, GD, and depression and improved research and treatment options.