Gambling induces addiction, as the brain perceives it as a rewarding activity.
Struggling with a gambling addiction? Reach out for help before it's too late! Call a hotline, sign up for a self-exclusion list, or attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting. As mobile sportsbooks become more common, signs of addiction can crop up unexpectedly.
In states such as Connecticut, the uptick in digital sports betting and iCasino has led to an increase in problem gamblers seeking help. In a shocking revelation, the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling revealed that the number of calls to their hotline has significantly grown since gambling went live in October 2021. Stories of individuals draining bank accounts, stealing from loved ones, and even contemplating suicide are eye-opening reminders of the severity of the issue.
Lawmakers are paying heed to the increased potential for addiction associated with expanded gambling offerings. In New York, legislators are committed to ensuring help is readily available for those battling gambling addiction as the state introduces mobile sports betting. New York Senator Joe Addabbo acknowledges the necessity of addressing addiction alongside the growth of gaming.
Various industry players have stepped up to combat problem gambling. Operators like FanDuel and BetMGM have announced new problem and responsible gambling programs, while the Arizona Department of Gaming has launched its "Awareness + Action" campaign. High-profile celebrities like Craig Carlton and the Manning family have even lent their support to these initiatives.
New treatment options for problem gambling are also being explored. Recent updates to the American Psychiatric Association's guidelines have recommended the use of medication, such as naltrexone, to treat gambling addiction. This medication affects the "reward" area of the brain, which is activated in gambling, similar to drug use. The reclassification of gambling issues as "addictions" has given medical professionals additional tools to treat the problem more effectively.
As digital gaming platforms expand, so does the number of people affected by addiction. Problem gambling can lead to low self-esteem, substance abuse, financial issues, relationship stress, and even suicide. To address this concern, initiatives need to continually adapt and evolve to reach those struggling with addiction, particularly in the era of mobile sportsbooks.
- The surge in digital sports betting and iCasino in Connecticut has seen a rise in individuals seeking help for gambling problems.
- Diana, a Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling representative, reported a significant increase in calls to their hotline post-launch of gambling.
- Stories of people draining their bank accounts, stealing from loved ones, and considering suicide are unveiling the seriousness of the gambling addiction issue.
- In an attempt to provide help for problem gamblers, New York legislators are planning to introduce mobile sports betting alongside measures to address addiction.
- To combat gambling addiction, companies like FanDuel and BetMGM have launched new responsible gambling programs, while the Arizona Department of Gaming has initiated its "Awareness + Action" campaign.
- As gambling is being reclassified as an addiction by medical professionals, the use of medication like naltrexone is being recommended for treating gambling addiction, targeting the "reward" center of the brain.
