Michigan Sports Betting, Gambling Addiction Numbers Rising
Author:
Zach Lutz
Reviewed by:
Published:
Nov 19, 2024
,
06:11 p.m.
ET
Michigan’s embrace of online gambling - both sports betting and iGaming/casino - has been a financial success, generating billions in handle and millions in tax contributions to the state. However, alongside this economic boost has come a surge in problem gambling, exposing the darker side of this booming industry.
This article explores the trends, figures and challenges surrounding Michigan’s online gambling landscape, focusing on its impact on individuals and the state as a whole.
Problem Gambling statistics and trends in Michigan
Since legalizing online sports betting and casino gaming in January 2021, Michigan has rapidly ascended to one of the top gambling markets in the U.S. In 2023, the state led the nation in gross receipts from internet gambling, with total wagers reaching $6.5 billion. By 2024, Michiganders were on track to gamble $7.5 billion online. It’s worth noting that Michigan is one of just seven states that have legalized online casino products.
But this growth isn’t just limited to wagers. Michigan's state revenue from online gaming soared to $354 million in 2023, far exceeding initial projections of $30-$40 million. A significant portion of these funds bolsters the $20 billion School Aid Fund, supporting Michigan's public schools.
While the economic benefits are undeniable, the ease of access to gambling has amplified concerns about addiction and financial ruin for some residents.
The societal toll of addiction with gambling’s growth in Michigan
The rapid rise of online gambling has significantly increased calls to Michigan’s gambling helpline. Between 2018 and 2023, calls tripled from 1,341 to 4,543 annually. A deeper dive into these numbers reveals troubling patterns:
30% of callers are in their 30s, with an additional 21% in their 40s.
Young adults, particularly those under 25, are especially vulnerable, echoing trends seen in other states.
2/3 of callers are male
The rise in problem gambling coincides with a surge in gambling advertisements, which bombard residents with enticing messages, from celebrities endorsing sports betting to playful ads normalizing gambling in everyday life.
Experts warn that this accessibility makes it harder for individuals prone to addiction – or those in recovery – to resist temptation. The result? Increased rates of bankruptcy, domestic violence and even suicide among problem gamblers.
Addressing gambling addiction in Michigan
In response to the escalating crisis, Michigan has doubled its funding for compulsive gambling services, increasing the budget to $8 million for 2024. This funding supports initiatives such as:
The “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign, raising awareness about the risks of gambling.
Expansion of treatment options, including up to 12 outpatient counseling sessions through a statewide network of 50 providers.
Prevention efforts in schools, aimed at educating young people about gambling risks.
However, advocates argue that these measures are only a start. David Ledgerwood, a gambling disorder researcher at Wayne State University, emphasizes the need for more in-depth data and tailored interventions. “Easy access to gambling, literally available in one’s living room, makes it much more difficult for someone vulnerable to gambling problems – or in recovery – to stay away,” Ledgerwood explains.
Michigan Sports Betting figures and stats
Michigan’s gambling industry is diverse, encompassing online gaming, retail casinos and sports betting. Here’s a closer look at the 2024 figures to date:
$202.6 million in gross receipts for September 2024, up 21.8% year-over-year.
Sports Betting:
$523.8 million in bets placed in September alone, an 80.8% increase from August.
2024 year-to-date handle: $3.6 billion.
These numbers highlight the growing popularity of online platforms, which now dwarf retail casino wagers and lottery sales.
How Michigan’s gambling numbers compare to the rest of the U.S.
Michigan’s gambling numbers align with national trends, where online betting is fueling revenue spikes and rising addiction rates. States like New Jersey, Ohio and Virginia share similar experiences. For example:
New Jersey: A 277% increase in gambling helpline calls since 2018.
Ohio: A 227% jump in calls from January 2022 to January 2023.
Virginia: A staggering 973% increase in helpline calls between 2019 and 2023.
Though Michigan ranks ninth in the nation for problem gambling spending, providing $5.5 million for services in 2021, other states like Massachusetts invest over $10 million annually.
The lack of detailed studies on Michigan’s problem gamblers, including their demographics and behaviors, leaves policy makers without critical data needed to create targeted interventions.
Gambling Addiction treatment and support in Michigan
For Michigan residents struggling with gambling addiction, help is available – and recovery is possible. Birches Health understands the toll gambling disorders can take on individuals and families. That's why Birches provides compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to the unique needs of those battling problem gambling.
Birches’ services include personalized counseling, addiction recovery programs and resources to rebuild financial, emotional and mental well-being. Whether you're seeking help for yourself or a loved one, Birches Health offers a supportive environment to break free from the cycle of compulsive gambling.
Don't wait to take back control of your life. Contact Birches Health today directly by calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com. Or, click on one of the links below to get started:
