Various studies have found high rates of suicidal ideation among pathological gamblers. A study by Lorenz & Yaffee found spouses of pathological gamblers to have suicide attempt rates 3-times higher than those in the general population. In this article, the nature & social costs of pathological gambling are reviewed. The interaction of pathological gambling with other disorders, including substance abuse, anxiety, & depression, are noted. Methods of screening pathological gamblers are summarized. Different treatment approaches & their effectiveness are reviewed. Treatment for spouses is discussed. Gambling expenditure data are then examined to determine what portion of total expenditures is accounted for by problem gamblers. (80 refs.)