Sports Betting Problems
Gambling is part of life, from lottery tickets and in-person and online casinos to raffles and online sports betting. While sports betting varies state by state, this type of gambling addiction isn’t restrained by state borders. According to the American Gaming Association (AGA), Americans have wagered nearly $26 billion on sporting events since May 2018. Gaming leaders in the United States say growing the legal sports betting market outside of Las Vegas is a priority for the industry. While legalized gambling on sports sounds like fun and games, it isn’t so positive for people with gambling problems, including those with sports betting problems.
Sports Betting Problems
Sports fans from professional and collegiate levels, including football, basketball, baseball, and more, are known for their loyalty to their teams. CNBC reports research has shown people who identify as sports fans compared to those who aren’t interested in sports have:
- Higher levels of self-esteem
- Lower levels of loneliness
- They tend to be more satisfied with their lives
Gambling proponents argue that betting on sports adds to that excitement and entertainment value, all while creating economic benefits (tax revenue). However, although most people bet on sports for fun, it can be an addictive behavior.
Gambling Addiction Experts Weigh In
On the other hand, opponents of legalized online gambling and sports betting point to the social costs. For example, emotional stress and relationship problems. The National Council on Problem Gambling says they analyzed more than 140 separate studies on sports gambling and gambling addiction and found that “sports bettors are at least twice as likely to have gambling problems.”
Expanding sports wagering availability makes it easier for people to place legal bets and will likely increase its acceptance. This will lead to more people developing problems with gambling, according to advocates of programs and resources to help those affected by problem gambling.
Online technology has added to that accessibility. 2018, the Supreme Court declared the PASPA, or Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, unconstitutional. This left each state free to take its stance on sports gambling and has expanded to 38 states today.
Today, bettors can place sports wagers online or directly on their mobile devices with sports betting apps, depending on state regulations.
Warning Signs of a Problem Gambling
The American Psychiatric Association defines a gambling disorder, also called gambling addiction or compulsive gambling, as involving repeated problematic gambling behavior that causes significant problems or distress. Some warning signs or red flags that meet the criteria provided by the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling (NCPG) include:
- You cannot stop gambling, even when it’s hurting you
- Gambling is all you think about
- You bet money you cannot afford to lose
- Restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop
- Betting other people’s money
- You steal to bet
- Asking others to bail you out when you gambled the money away
- Lying about the time and amount of money you are gambling
- Gambling more after a loss to win back the loss
- Gambling is killing your relationships
Getting Help for Sports Betting Problems
“I need to talk to someone about my gambling problem” is the most straightforward way to start a conversation. Most importantly, the state of Nebraska has a gamblers assistance program with a 24/7 hotline at 1-833-BetOver (238-6837). The program also includes counseling services for problem gamblers and their families. You may also find help in local support groups.
Gambling Addiction Counseling in Omaha, NE
Are you in need of gambling addiction counseling in Omaha? Contact Blue Sky Counseling today.
Blue Sky Counseling Omaha
I, Carly Spring, M.S., LIMHP, LADC, CPC, offer my specialized expertise to assist in the healing process to anyone who may be experiencing and suffering from a vast spectrum of mental health issues such as behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, addiction issues, and life transitions. I believe strongly in applying a holistic perspective addressing your whole person not just the bits and pieces of you. Contact us with any questions or to explore pathological gambling addiction treatment options today. Blue Sky Counseling also offers alcohol counseling in Omaha.
