Have Gambling Problems Increased Since the Legalization of Online Sports Betting in Florida?
What Defines a Gambling Disorder?
Gambling disorders are characterized by repetitive gambling behaviors despite harm and negative consequences. Specific diagnostic criteria include:
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to get the same thrill.
- Trying to control, cut back, or stop gambling, without success.
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut down on gambling.
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression.
It is important to note that gambling disorders are also heavily linked to narcissistic tendencies and are highly associated with suicidality. Compulsive gambling is referred to as the “silent killer” because it is not easy to spot on the surface. Society has normalized lottery tickets, scratch-offs, casinos, fantasy sports, poker games, and sports betting.
So, has the legalization of online sports betting in Florida—making it easier to access and easier to hide, as it can all exist on your cell phone—increased gambling disorders? Resoundingly, YES!
The Impact of the Legalization
Since the legalization of online sports betting in Florida, there has been a significant increase in gambling disorders. The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling reported a 138% surge in calls to its helpline in the months following the relaunch of legal online betting in December 2023. This surge in demand has stretched the hotline’s resources and highlighted the growing problem of gambling addiction in the state of Florida.
The ease of access to online betting has made it simpler for individuals to place bets, contributing to the increase in gambling-related issues. Family members of those struggling with gambling addiction have also been reaching out for support, indicating the broader impact on communities.
To address this rising issue, there have been calls for stricter regulations on advertisements targeting younger audiences and better funding for addiction prevention and support services.
FL's gambling hotline swamped with calls after online sports betting made legal
So, What’s the Solution?
Gambling disorders are hard to recognize until the individual hits a bottom and asks for help. Often, family members are the first to recognize an issue, as they have front row seats to the gambling preoccupation, the missing finances, and the deception. Many families across the world are being impacted by this, and the increase in Florida is incredibly alarming.
If you are ready to get help, there are several ways to access it:
- Casinos allow you to “opt-out” so that you are not granted admission even when your cravings to gamble become intense.
- Online betting apps allow you to block yourself for increments of time.
- Various apps enable someone else to hold you accountable regarding finances.
- Gamblers Anonymous meetings are free of charge and offer a 12-step support group with other individuals struggling with the same issue.
- There is a crisis line available, which is working on increasing funding and manpower to help those calling in.
Start Working with An Addiction Therapist in Palm Beach County, FL
Therapy is another great way to access support! Mangrove Therapy Group takes a special interest in process addictions (addictions to things other than substances) and helps individuals stop problematic behaviors and understand the root of the pain that they are attempting to avoid or medicate through addiction. You can start your therapy journey with our team of caring therapists by following these simple steps:
- Contact Mangrove Therapy
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start overcoming process addictions today!
Other Services Offered with Mangrove Therapy
Support with overcoming process addictions isn't the only service we offer at Mangrove Therapy Group. Our team knows that you may experience concerns with a variety of mental health concerns. This is why we are happy to offer support in treating trauma, EMDR, and PTSD/C-PTSD, substance use disorders, eating disorders, body image issues, anger management, anxiety, low self-esteem, personality disorders, and much more. In addition, we also offer support with addictions such as grief and loss, EMDR, “Failure to Launch” syndrome, CBT, and DBT. Feel free to learn more by visiting our blog or FAQ page to learn more today!