U.S. sports betting soars 23.6% amid alarming rise in addiction

The rise of sports Betting and the Growing Need for Support

Sports betting in the United States is booming, with Americans wagering record-breaking sums. This surge in popularity has regrettably coincided with an increase in gambling addiction, highlighting the crucial need for accessible support services.

Record-Breaking Sports Wagers

According to the American Gaming association,sports betting in the U.S. surged by 23.6% in 2024, reaching $147.9 billion. Numerous states reported staggering growth, with Massachusetts witnessing a 40% surge in revenue and Illinois surpassing New Jersey to become the second-largest sports betting market, trailing only New York.

The Dark Side of a Booming Industry

While the financial benefits of legalized sports betting are undeniable, there’s a darker side to this expanding industry.As accessibility increases and sports betting becomes increasingly normalized, rates of gambling addiction are also on the rise.

Birches Health, a gambling-specialized treatment provider, has observed “notable findings in the past year around the societal impacts, including rates of gambling addiction.”

Increased Demand for help

Several states have seen a dramatic increase in calls to their gambling hotlines since legalizing sports betting. Virginia experienced a staggering 973% increase in helpline calls between 2019 and 2023. Florida also reported a 138% rise in outreach during the first two months following the legalization of sports betting.

New Jersey, which legalized sports betting in 2018 and has since expanded to include online casino games, has seen a 277% increase in helpline outreach since legalization. According to Birches Health,the gambling addiction rate among males aged 18-20 in New Jersey is around 10%,compared to the national average of approximately 3%.

A Surge in young Male Bettors

“we’ve recently seen an alarming influx of young male bettors across the U.S. seeking assistance for serious gambling problems,” said Elliott Rapaport, founder of Birches Health.

“Even in states where sports betting has not been legalized, they are easily finding ways to bet on sports and play online casino games using unregulated platforms, which of course is very concerning.”

New Landscape, New Support Sectors

The evolving landscape of sports betting has led to the emergence of an industry dedicated to providing support for those struggling with gambling addiction.

In addition to established organizations like Gamblers Anonymous, there are now a variety of online and in-person care options available. Kindbridge Behavioral Health and Birches Health are among the leading providers, offering a nationwide team of specially-trained counselors certified to treat gambling and gaming disorder. These services often utilize virtual platforms, removing barriers such as travel inconvenience and cost, and many treatment options are covered by insurance.

Call to Action

As sports betting continues to gain traction, it’s essential to raise awareness about the potential risks and ensure access to timely support for those who need it. If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, please reach out for help. Remember, recovery is possible, and support services are available.

What does BetResponsibly do to promote responsible gambling?

Interview with Dr. Ava Johnson, Director of Public health Initiatives at BetResponsibly

Exploring the Rise of Sports Betting and the Growing need for Support

Sports betting in the United States is enjoying unprecedented popularity, with Americans pouring record-breaking amounts into the industry. However, this growth has raised significant concerns, notably an increase in gambling addiction. To shed light on this phenomenon,we spoke with Dr. Ava Johnson,Director of Public Health Initiatives at BetResponsibly,a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting responsible gambling.

Record-Breaking Sports Wagers: A Booming Industry

Archyde (A): Dr. Johnson, let’s kick things off by discussing the incredible growth in sports betting. Can you share some of the most striking figures from recent years?

Dr. Ava Johnson (DJ): Certainly! In 2024, Americans wagered a staggering $147.9 billion on sports, a 23.6% increase from the previous year. States like Massachusetts and Illinois have seen remarkable revenue growth, with Illinois even surpassing New Jersey to become the second-largest sports betting market.

The Dark Side of an Expanding Industry

A: While these numbers are impressive, there’s a less visible side to this growth. Can you talk about the rising rates of gambling addiction?

DJ: Unfortunately,yes. As sports betting becomes more accessible and mainstream, we’re seeing a corresponding increase in gambling addiction. Birches Health, a specialist treatment provider, has noted significant impacts, including rising rates of addiction. This is a worrying trend that we’re closely monitoring.

Increased Demand for Help: A Wake-Up Call

A: We’ve seen a dramatic increase in calls to gambling helplines across the country. Have you noticed any particular trends in these calls?

DJ: Indeed, the increases are stark, with virginia seeing a 973% rise in helpline calls between 2019 and 2023. Florida and New Jersey have also reported significant surges in outreach following legalization. These numbers are a clear indication that support services are needed now more then ever.

A Surge in Young Male Bettors: A Concerning Trend

A: We’re seeing more young men seeking help for gambling problems. Can you tell us more about this trend?

DJ: Yes, there’s a worrying influx of young male bettors struggling with serious gambling issues. Even in states where sports betting is not yet legal, they’re finding ways to gamble online. This easy access is a major concern, and we need to ensure these young people have the resources they need.

New Landscape, New Support Sectors: Hope on the Horizon

A: The sports betting landscape is evolving, and with it, so are support services. What kind of assistance is now available for those struggling with gambling addiction?

DJ: We’re seeing a new wave of support services, from online and in-person counseling to virtual treatment options covered by insurance. Providers like Kindbridge Behavioral Health and Birches Health are at the forefront, offering specialized care for gambling and gaming disorder.

Call to Action: Raising Awareness, saving Lives

A: Dr. Johnson, what final thoughts would you like to share with our readers?”

DJ: as sports betting continues to grow, it’s crucial that we raise awareness about the potential risks. If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, please reach out for help. Recovery is possible, and support services are available. Let’s prioritize responsible gambling and ensure that no one falls through the cracks.

end of interview