Gambling and suicidal behaviour

BACKGROUND: The negative consequences of pathological gambling are related to social, economical and relational problems. Few studies are available on possible associations between gambling and suicidal behaviour. Updated literature reviews are needed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PsychInfo, ISI and Google Scholar were searched for relevant literature and 38 publications were found. RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION: Problem gamblers seeking treatment often report suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide. Those with suicidal behaviour more often report mental health problems, alcohol or drug problems, relational difficulties and financial problems than other problem gamblers. Population surveys suggest that suicidal behaviour tends to occur more frequently among problem gamblers than among others. Studies of the association between gambling and suicidal behaviour at the aggregate level have provided ambiguous results. It is not clear whether gambling per se may increase the risk of suicidal behaviour. However, the high prevalence of suicidal behaviour among problem gamblers suggests that suicide risk should be considered when they present for treatment. Language: no