Each year the National Council on Problem Gambling observes Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) throughout March. Although this annual grassroots campaign has sought to increase public awareness around problem gambling and promote recovery, the current gambling landscape is rapidly changing due to new regulations and the rise of mobile betting apps. This major transformation of gaming culture over the past few years ushered in an era of unprecedented accessibility and convenience.
Following the rise of mobile betting platforms and online gaming, the days of taking trips to casinos, internet cafes, or even gas station lotto machines are all but gone. The arrival of online platforms and the legalization of sports betting have reinvented the way people engage with gambling.
As Zepf Center’s Gambling Treatment Program Manager Megan Poliquin, LPCC-S, LICDC-GAMB notes, the transition towards "On-Demand" gambling has been swift, allowing individuals to place bets anytime, anywhere, via their smartphones or computers.
“You used to have to get in your car and drive to the casino to play slot machines or drive to the gas station to buy a scratch-off ticket,” Poliquin said. “It almost feels like gambling—and sports betting specifically—has gone ‘viral’ in Ohio since its legalization.”
The 2023 legalization of sports betting in Ohio marked a pivotal moment for those involved with gambling and those working in the field of problem gambling treatment and prevention. Suddenly, a wave of newcomers, enticed by the appeal of easy winnings and celebrity endorsements, began exploring the realm of online sports betting. The allure of online sports betting has particularly captivated the younger demographic, with reports suggesting a surge in participation among college students and young adults ages 18-24.
The rise of gambling-related content on social media platforms like TikTok and the endorsement of sports betting apps by celebrities have further fueled this trend. With tempting sign-up bonuses and attractive offers, these platforms have successfully enticed individuals to try their luck, blurring the lines between casual entertainment and potential addiction.
While gambling itself is not inherently negative, the increased opportunities, relentless advertising, and the perceived convenience of online gambling may bring additional consequences and risks to those involved. The vastness of gambling-related content, coupled with increased social acceptability, creates a perfect storm for individuals who may be at a higher risk for gambling disorder.
“In 2023, Ohio bettors placed $7.7 billion in wagers,” said Poliquin. “97% of those bets were placed on the state’s betting apps which collected over $912 million in profits.”
With the rise of gambling in popular culture, spring sports events like the Super Bowl and March Madness have become bigger than ever before. While exciting for many, these occasions can be triggering for those already grappling with gambling addiction. The heightened frenzy surrounding these events often leads to increased risky betting from all sides and worsens feelings of peer pressure and stigma for those attempting to curb their gambling habits or maintain sobriety.
For those like Poliquin in the problem gambling field, terms like "March Madness" take on a new undertone as gambling addiction rates soar. What was once a seasonal celebration of sports has left many, previously untouched by gambling-related issues, entangled in a cycle of compulsive betting, leading to financial and psychological consequences.
“What we’re seeing are individuals suddenly coming out of the woodwork with extreme sports betting problems, many of which barely gambled before sports betting was legal or only gambled socially,” Poliquin said.
Despite the realities of gambling addiction, it is important to recognize that responsible gambling is still possible for many gamers. Setting limits on time and money spent, refraining from using gambling as a coping mechanism, and seeking alternative forms of entertainment are some strategies to maintain responsible gaming. However, individuals may still be at risk of developing a gambling problem despite having these safeguards in place.
“Gambling itself is neither good nor bad, but how an individual gambles can become an issue,” said Poliquin. “Zepf Center’s gambling treatment program is not ‘anti-gambling’; instead, we work with individuals who have already identified that they can no longer gamble responsibly and want help.”
Recognizing the signs of gambling addiction is important for early intervention, but treatment is an invaluable resource for individuals in any stage of their addiction. Persistent thoughts about gambling, financial recklessness, and strained relationships are red flags that treatment may be needed. For individuals seeking help, organizations like Zepf Center offer therapists trained specifically in treating gambling disorder, and provide comprehensive treatment programs, both in-person and via telehealth, at no cost for Ohio residents.
"We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and innovative Gambling Treatment team," said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. "They are always looking for new, creative ways to enhance the client experience and provide outreach and education opportunities for the surrounding community."
While the allure of online gambling may be enticing, it's essential to approach it with caution and mindfulness. By fostering a culture of responsible gambling and providing support for those in need, we can strive towards a safer and more inclusive gambling environment for all.
To learn more about Zepf Center’s Problem Gambling Treatment program, visit www.zepfcenter.org/problem-gambling/.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of gambling addiction, call the Gambling Treatment Program directly at 419.841.7701 ext. 6189 or email [email protected].