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Evaluation of a physical activity program for pathological gamblers in treatment
Daniela Lopes Angelo1, Hermano Tavares, Monica Levit Zilberman
1Outpatient Clinic for Gambling and Other Impulse Control Disorders, Institute and Department of Psychiatry, University of São Paulo School of Medicine, Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, 785, São Paulo, 05403-903, Brazil. danialoppes@yahoo.com.br
Physical activity significantly reduced gambling craving, anxiety, and improved gambling behavior in pathological gamblers. Exercise may be a viable complementary therapy for managing addiction and associated mental health symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- Pathological gambling is linked to anxiety and depression.
- Exercise can alleviate anxiety and depression, and aid substance use disorder recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a physical activity program on pathological gamblers.
- To analyze the relationship between gambling craving and stress hormone levels.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-three pathological gamblers participated in an eight-session physical activity program.
- Craving, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and gambling behavior were assessed.
- Plasmatic levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol, and prolactin were measured.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in gambling craving was observed after each session and by the program's end.
- Improvements were noted in anxiety, depressive symptoms, and gambling behavior.
- Craving reduction correlated with prolactin level variations, but not cortisol or adrenocorticotropic hormone.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity effectively reduces gambling craving and anxiety in pathological gamblers.
- Exercise demonstrates potential as an adjunct therapy for managing gambling disorder.
- The study highlights the neuroendocrine correlates of craving reduction in pathological gambling.
