What criteria should I use to diagnose a gambling disorder in a primary care setting?

To diagnose a gambling disorder in a primary care setting, consider assessing the person's gambling history, including when it started, how it has progressed, and the frequency or intensity of gambling activities ¹.

Evaluate the types and locations of gambling activities, as well as the current frequency of gambling (e.g., days per week or hours per day) ¹.

Assess the impact of gambling on mental health, physical health, social functioning, relationships, employment, and involvement in crime ¹.

Use direct questions such as: 'Do you gamble?' or 'Are you worried about your own or another person's gambling?' and consider the person's motivation to change and their reasons for seeking support ¹.

Compare the individual's symptoms with the ICD-11 or DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorder to inform diagnosis ¹.

Additionally, evaluate for comorbidities, safeguarding issues, and immediate needs, which may influence the diagnosis and management plan ¹.