A recent survey from The National Council on Problem Gambling found that younger Americans are the most at risk of gambling-related harm.
Half of the young people under the age of 35 surveyed responded “yes” to at least one question indicating a risk of problem gambling. This is contrary to those 65+ where only 10% did the same.
The survey also found that those engaging in sports betting were also particularly at risk. According to the survey’s results, people who engage in sports betting are more than three times more likely to report problem gambling than others.
While the numbers should show some cause for concern, the report also highlighted some good news. 70% of respondents said that they have never participated in potentially harmful gambling behaviors.
Even so, problem gambling is an issue that is to be taken seriously, and people suffering from it should receive the assistance they need.
What does problem gambling look like?
The Mayo Clinic lays out the following symptoms as potential warning signs for problem gambling:
- Being preoccupied with gambling, such as continually planning how to get more gambling money
- Needing to gamble with more amounts of money to “feel the thrill”
- Trying to control, cut back, or stop gambling, but with no success
- Feeling restless or irritable as a result of attempting to cut down on gambling
- Feeling the need to gamble to escape problems or relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression
- Chasing lost money spent on gambling
- Lying to others to hide the gambling acts
- Risking loss of important relationships, jobs, or school or work opportunities because of gambling
- Resorting to theft or fraud to obtain gambling money
- Asking others for help financially due to money lost from gambling
If you or someone you know is having an issue with problem gambling, we encourage you to seek help.
How to get the help needed
Online casinos have instituted a list of tools to assist those at risk of problem gambling. These tools allow players to limit the amount of time and money spent while playing.
Any player who believes they may potentially be at risk of problem gambling should seek these tools out on the “Responsible Gaming” page of your online casino.
There is also multiple local, state, and federal organizations that can assist you or the person you love suffering from problem gambling.
Learn more about the online casino tools and resources for problem gambling on our responsible gambling page here.