Gambling addiction, also known as compulsive gambling or problem gambling, is a pervasive yet frequently underestimated issue that impacts countless lives. Despite growing awareness and efforts by governments, media, and mental health organizations, the rate of gambling addiction continues to climb, driven mainly by online gambling. The American Gaming Association is crucial in advocating for responsible gaming and regulatory collaboration.
Even as traditional brick-and-mortar casinos struggle, the online gambling industry enjoys astronomical growth and profits. The National Council on Problem Gambling serves as a critical resource for individuals facing gambling issues.
At PCP, we are committed to shining a light on the dangers of compulsive gambling, identifying those at risk, and providing practical strategies for overcoming this destructive addiction.
What Is a Gambling Addiction?
A gambling addiction is a form of behavioural addiction characterized by the uncontrollable urge to continue betting despite the negative consequences to their personal, financial, social and physical well-being.
A behavioral addiction is a type of dependence where a person is addicted to a particular action or the feeling they experience when performing this action rather than a substance.
In 2022, compulsive gambling was officially placed in the same category as other addictions like alcohol, heroin, or methamphetamines. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), gambling disorder is classified as a behavioural addiction, highlighting its shift from an impulse control disorder and emphasizing its implications in clinical settings.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
Changes in brain chemistry noticed in compulsive gambling are similar to those seen in substance use disorders (SUD). This involves changes in the reward system of the brain which is mainly controlled by the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Dopamine is responsible for the pleasurable feeling we get during sex or when eating sugary snacks. Unfortunately, harmful activities like drug abuse and betting can also cause the brain to release dopamine.
The brains of people with a gambling addiction release large amounts of dopamine when they bet. Over time the brain builds up tolerance to the repeated stimulation by dopamine. So compulsive gamblers have to bet more frequently, often with higher stakes, to feel that same rush.
Another side effect of these frequent dopamine releases is that compulsive gamblers typically have a higher threshold for excitement. They lose interest in other activities aside from betting and tend to get bored easily. This low threshold for boredom is often one of the triggers for relapses.
Why Is Compulsive Gambling Becoming More Popular with Legalised Sports Betting?
More Access to Online Gambling
Access to gambling has grown rapidly over the last decade with the increased popularity of online casinos and virtual sports betting.
The rapid rise of online sports betting in the U.S. is closely connected to the legalization of sports betting across various states.
One of the reasons for this is higher global internet penetration, with the number of Internet users more than doubling in the last decade. By current estimates, about 5.35 billion people use the internet, approximately 66% of the world’s total population.
Another factor is how easily online money transactions have become because of online payment platforms and cryptocurrency. This makes it convenient to set up and fund gambling accounts from anywhere in the world, in nearly any currency.
Improved Customer Experience
Recently online betting platforms have invested heavily in improving customer experience by creating more immersive and interactive platforms. This involves the use of high-quality graphics, user-friendly interfaces, live games with real-time interaction, and even virtual reality.
Another strategy commonly used by gambling platforms is the “gamification” of gambling. Gamification means applying game-design elements and principles in non-game contexts to engage and motivate users.
Points, rewards systems, leaderboards, and badges are popular examples. This psychological technique plays on the naturally competitive nature of most people and the impulsivity seen among gamblers.
Marketing and Advertising
It is difficult to estimate global spending by online gambling platforms on marketing. However, online gambling advertising in the US alone stood at $1.9 billion in 2023.
The increase in gambling addiction has been correlated with the rising popularity of sports betting apps. These apps allow for rapid and convenient betting directly from personal devices, leading to a surge in problem gambling, particularly among younger individuals.
Aside from the sheer size of funding towards advertising, online camping platforms also use sophisticated data analytics to target potential customers based on browsing history, interest, and behaviours.
They also offer new users promotional offers like welcome bonuses and loyalty programs to incentivize playing. Celebrity endorsements and innovative ad campaigns using social media and affiliate marketing have helped catapult the popularity of online gambling.
Lax Government Regulations
Many governments around the world have relaxed anti-gambling laws for several different reasons.
Gambling companies or a significant source of government revenue via taxation. Current estimates suggest that betting and gaming duties will raise £3.6 billion for the UK government in 2024.
Through the Gambling Act 2005, the UK government legalized online gambling and permitted the advertising of gambling services on television and other media, which was previously restricted.
In 2014 the Point of Consumption Tax and Remote Gambling Act were introduced, which made it possible for overseas operators to offer services to the UK as long as certain conditions were met.
The government has also relaxed restrictions on opening hours for betting shops and offered an online national lottery.
In Ohio, the Ohio Casino Control Commission plays a crucial role in monitoring and addressing gambling-related issues, particularly following the legalization of sports betting. The commission aims to ensure safe gambling practices as the industry expands, responding to the rising rates of problem gambling and increased call volume to the state’s helpline.
Reduced Social Stigma
Over the last couple of decades, gambling has gone from being illegal to socially discouraged and, finally, an acceptable form of entertainment.
This is linked to increased access to gambling services, the psychological effects of widespread marketing campaigns by betting companies, as well as efforts by the government to legalize various forms of gambling.
Changing demographics may also play a role as an increasing number of adolescents and young adults have been introduced to gambling through online betting platforms.
Physical casinos have long been the scapegoat of the gambling industry. However, sports betting and casino activities can occur online, making gambling more discreetly possible.
Socio-Economic Factors
Social factors like isolation, economic downturns, and the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly contributed to the rise in gambling addiction, especially through online gambling.
Social isolation is a growing problem in our modern societies and often leads to boredom, loneliness, and stress, making gambling an appealing escape. The lack of social support also means there’s less accountability and oversight from friends and family, allowing gambling habits to develop unchecked.
With social interactions and physical gambling venues restricted during the pandemic, many turned to online platforms, including gambling sites, for entertainment and social engagement.
The use of online betting platforms increased significantly, especially among men and young adults. A large number of users signed up for a new online account during COVID-19, with many of them being first-time players.
Economic uncertainty, job losses and financial instability during the pandemic made gambling seem like a potential solution to financial problems. The stress and anxiety of financial pressures also drove many to gamble as a coping mechanism.
Additionally, during economic crises, gambling operators often intensify their marketing efforts, targeting financially vulnerable individuals with tempting offers.
Dangers of a Gambling Addiction
● Compulsive gambling can lead to strain in relationships with friends, family, and spouses.
● The significant impact of gambling addictions on individuals’ lives necessitates better awareness and treatment options.
● Problematic gambling can also lead to financial problems like inability to pay bills, a poor credit score, debt and bankruptcy.
● Gambling can lead to legal problems.
● Problematic betting is also associated with poor work performance or job loss.
● Poor general health when individuals start paying less attention to their personal hygiene, feeding, fitness or health.
● A gambling disorder can worsen already existing mental health conditions and may even lead to suicide.
● Gambling creates a vicious cycle of losses and increasing desperate wagers to recoup these losses.
Who Is at Risk of a Gambling Addiction?
● Family history of addiction
● People with mental health disorders or a history of substance abuse
● Young adults and middle-aged individuals
● The increasing visibility of Gamblers Anonymous as more young individuals attend meetings due to rising gambling addiction rates
● Men are more likely to develop gambling problems than women
● People who are highly competitive, impulsive, or easily bored
● People exposed to gambling through friends, family, or culture, especially at a young age
● People with easy access to gambling venues or online gambling
● Significant life changes or stress
Signs of a Gambling Addiction
According to the American Psychiatric Association and the DSM-5, you may have a problem with betting if you exhibit at least four of these signs within one year:
● Thrill-seeking behaviour, especially if increasingly higher stakes are required to feel the same level of excitement.
● Impulsive behaviors associated with in-game betting and the rising concerns about gambling-related issues among sports bettors.
● Getting irritated when attempting to control your addiction.
● Frequent failed attempts to control your betting habits.
● If you have obsessive thoughts about betting.
● Using gambling as a mechanism to cope with difficult emotions or situations.
● Often returning to betting after significant losses in an attempt to get even.
● Lying to cover up your betting habits.
● Choosing gambling despite the consequences to your relationships or responsibilities.
● Continuing to bet despite the financial stream to yourself, family or friends.
How To Quit Compulsive Gambling
● Recognize that you have a compulsive urge to gamble and it is negatively affecting your life in different aspects.
● Avoid boredom and find engaging in healthy activities like hobbies or exercise.
● Develop healthy stress-relieving techniques like yoga, meditation, walks, exercise or hobbies.
● Sports betting operators are working with regulators to ensure responsible gambling practices, highlighting the importance of interventions to protect consumers from problem gambling.
● Overcome the stigma of problematic gambling through therapy and seeking community support.
● Confide in someone you trust
● Seek professional counselling and therapy
Seek Help Today
Gambling addiction is a complex and growing problem. Despite efforts to curb its rise, the allure of online gambling continues to draw many, leading to severe personal and financial consequences. The significant rise in gambling activities following the legalization of sports gambling in various states has further exacerbated this issue, particularly among younger demographics.
Understanding the nature of gambling addiction, recognizing its signs, and implementing effective strategies for recovery are important steps in addressing this issue. The impact of sports wagering on addiction rates, along with concerns around advertising and its normalization, highlights the urgent need for preventive education and support services.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, it’s important to seek help. At PCP, we offer resources and support to guide you on the path to recovery. Don’t wait—reach out today and take the first step towards reclaiming control over your life.
