At-Risk Populations for Gambling Addiction: Stats & Trends
Published:
Dec 23, 2024
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10:40 a.m.
ET
Gambling is an activity many people enjoy. However, it can manifest into a serious problem. Gambling addiction occurs when the habit leads to adverse outcomes. It can ruin relationships, finances, and careers.
Sports betting is one of the most popular forms of gambling in the U.S. According to the American Gaming Association, over 50% of Americans gambled in the past year.
Gambling addiction doesn’t discriminate. Anyone can gamble, regardless of gender or ethnicity. The legal gambling age is 18 in some states and 21 in others. Still, it can attract teens and kids with the rise of social media platforms. This guide will explore who is most at risk for gambling addiction.
Which cohorts and populations are most at-risk for gambling problems?
Gambling can occur in any culture. Some individuals might enjoy gambling without having any issues. But others might find themselves struggling with this habit.
Understanding who’s at risk for gambling problems can reveal the underlying causes. This can prevent gambling from becoming a serious problem and offer individualized treatment for efficient recovery.
Military Personnel
Both active military personnel and veterans are at risk for problem gambling issues. Some service members struggle with co-occurring mental health problems, like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress (PTSD).
These individuals turn to activities to escape from their negative thoughts and feelings. However, their life can get out of control when they steal money or illegally gamble. According to one study, veterans are more likely to develop problem gambling than active personnel. There were more reported cases in 2024 than two years prior.
That same study found that sports betting is popular among the military. This type of gambling has been an ongoing problem with the United States military.
Young Adults
According to Responsible Gambling, teenagers and young adults are at higher risk. Most were exposed to gambling on mobile apps and social media. These apps make sports betting and casino games look fun and entertaining by using colorful graphics and catchy music.
In addition, adults aged 18-24 are at greater risk for gambling addiction. This is dangerous, considering the brain hasn’t fully developed. Individuals at this stage don’t have fully developed emotions or reasoning skills.
This can make it hard for young adults to develop strong decision-making skills. Another reason for this factor is that most young adults are more likely to take risks. Some can act impulsively, especially when it comes to money.
Certain Personalities
Gambling can affect different types of personalities. For example, individuals who are easily bored, highly competitive, impulsive, and restless are at risk for problem gambling, according to Yale Medicine.
In addition, individuals who struggle with behavioral or mood disorders might develop gambling problems. A 2008 study found that individuals with mental health conditions are close to 20 times more likely to struggle with problem gambling.
Individuals with certain mood or personality disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), borderline personality disorder, or schizophrenia might have problem gambling disorder.
Individuals with gambling addiction might also suffer from other co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression. Other individuals might struggle with alcohol or substance abuse problems.
Older Adults
Gambling can also affect older adults. They’re at higher risk of developing cognitive problems, such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and memory issues. Older adults with mental health and impairment issues are at risk of problem gambling.
Some older adults prefer to gamble in a social setting. However, others can withdraw from their friends and family. Another study found that gamblers between 50 and 64 are twice as likely to gamble alone.
Gender
Men are more likely to struggle with problem gambling. The reason why so many men are drawn to gambling is because it involves some form of strategy. Certain types of gambling increased in popularity over the years, such as sports betting and horse racing.
Yet, The Guardian reports a growing number of women gamblers. Over the past five years, they doubled the rate of men, rising from 2,303 in 2014 to 3,109 in 2020. Those numbers keep growing.
Women also often tend to prefer less strategic forms of gambling. The most popular games among this gender are bingo and slot machines.
Gambling Addiction treatment and resources
Individuals can get help for their gambling addiction. Treatment typically includes individual counseling, medication, and self-help support groups. Counseling can involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, or couples therapy. This is because gambling addiction can negatively affect relationships.
Resources and help are also available for gambling addiction. Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is one example of a support group that’s based on the 12-step method. Each state has an available gambling helpline, offering support and treatment center access.
The National Problem Gambling Helpline is also available for individuals who want to overcome gambling addiction. It’s one of the top resources for those who struggle with problem gambling or for their loved ones.
Birches Health is another option for gambling addiction. You’ll receive treatment in a safe and supportive environment right at home. Virtual treatment includes a combination of science-based and holistic therapies, such as CBT, medication, and support groups.
Here are some ways to get started with your mental health journey:
You can also call (833) 483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to take the first step.
SOURCES:
American Attitudes Towards Gaming 2024 - American Gaming Association
Gambling Addiction Amongst US Military On The Rise - Addiction Center
Who's at Risk for Problem Gambling? | Safer Play | For the Public | Responsible Gambling
‘I was living a secret life’: the agonising rise of female gamblers | Women | The Guardian
