Gambling Disorder (GD) is defined as the recurrent and persistent act of betting which leads to clinical impairments,. The latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) conceptualizes GD as a behavioral addiction due to the similarities between GD and substance addictions in clinical presentation, association with personality factors, genetic transmission and treatment options. Previous studies found potential benefits of physical activity in treatment of addictions in general and GD in particular, such as reducing desire to play, betting and depressive and anxious symptoms.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 75 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria:
* Five or more diagnostic criteria for pathological gambling specified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Edition (DSM-IV-TR - APA, 2000);
* At least four years of formal education;
* Able to perform physical activity;
* Non-pregnant.
Exclusion criteria:
* Clinical pathology that demands urgent care such as hospitalization in another service;
* Any cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, or clinical condition that could prevent the practice of aerobic activity, established in clinical evaluation prior to randomization;
* Psychotic disorder that may undermine validity of responses to the self-report scales administered;
* Condition which affects the central nervous system and seriously impairs cognitive functions, as a disorder oligophrenia;
* Diagnosis of moderate to severe depression that compromises engagement in physical activity.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.