The co-morbidity of DSM-V Gambling with DSM-V mental disorders and substance abuse in a Kenyan context of high risk schizophrenia

Abstract

Abstract Introduction There is evidence that gambling disorder shares similarities with other types of addictive behavior, such as occurs in substance abuse. In addition, co-morbidity of gambling with mental disorders has been established in school-going students. Aim This study aimed at determining the comorbidity of DSM-V gambling disorder with DSM-V mental disorders and substance abuse in high school, college and university students in Kenya. Methods This was a cross-sectional study among 536 high school, college and university students. We collected data on socio-demographic characteristics, economic indicators, DSM-V diagnosis including DSM-V gambling disorder and substance use disorders using the WHO ASSIST tool. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done. Results A total of 536 students participated in the study, of which 11.4% (61 out of 536) had DSM-V gambling disorder. Male gender (AOR = 12.0, 95% CI: 4.99–34.3), antisocial personality disorder (AOR = 3.42, 95% CI: 1.34–8.54), tobacco use (AOR = 4.42, 95% CI: 1.15–18.3) and conduct disorder (AOR = 7.56, 95% CI: 2.34–25.1) were predictors of gambling disorder. Conclusion Gambling is highly prevalent in Kenya learning institutions at 11.4% and is associated with mental disorders and substance use. There is a need for public awareness of gambling among Kenyan youths.