Compulsive gambling, also called gambling disorder, is the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on your life. Gambling means that you’re willing to risk something you value in the hope of getting something of even greater value. Signs and symptoms of compulsive gambling (gambling disorder) can include: being constantly preoccupied with gambling; needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill; to control, cut back or stop gambling, without success; gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression; lying to family members or others to hide the extent of your gambling; risking or losing important relationships, a job, or school or work opportunities because of gambling.