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Gambling-related harm and gambling disorder
Information and education only
This article provides general information and education. It does not provide individual advice or replace assessment, diagnosis or care from a qualified professional. The information is not exhaustive and should be understood in its cultural and local context.
About the source and review
Adapted and abridged from educational manuscripts by Bineta Gueye Thiam. Current public sources were checked on 13 October 2026 for this web edition. These editorial checks are not an independent clinical review; no clinical reviewer is claimed for this edition.
Gambling can harm finances, relationships and health, including the lives of people close to the person who gambles. Harm can occur without a diagnosis of gambling disorder.
Understanding experiences
Gambling disorder is classified among disorders due to addictive behaviours. It involves impaired control, increasing priority given to gambling and continuation despite negative consequences. A qualified professional assesses the person’s situation; this description is not a self-test.
Support and care
Psychological approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy, can help. Support should avoid blame and address practical as well as emotional needs. Immediate danger or thoughts of acting on suicide require urgent medical help.
Further reading
Public information for context. These links do not imply endorsement or confirm that a service is available in Senegal.
- Gambling
Creator / organisation: World Health Organization (WHO)
Resource language: EN · Links checked: 2026-10-13
- Jeux d’argent et de hasard
Creator / organisation: Organisation mondiale de la Santé (OMS)
Resource language: FR · Links checked: 2026-10-13