Online Gambling More Addictive than In-Person? Study Says Yes

Key Points: 

• A new study out of Laramie County in Wyoming indicated that online gambling poses a higher risk of addiction than in-person gambling.

• Online gamblers reported higher levels of depression, anxiety and financial stress, along with weaker impulse control.

• Young men aged 18-29 are particularly vulnerable, with nearly 30% reporting two or more gambling-related problems.

• Despite higher risks, the majority of those affected are unaware of available resources and unlikely to seek help.

• Online gambling's ease of 24/7 access and lack of built-in "brakes" make it extra risky.

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Gambling’s increased accessibility is well-documented, and new research from Wyoming highlights the growing risks associated with online betting even more. Conducted by Datacorp and unveiled during a recent Behavioral Health Action Team meeting in Cheyenne, the study indicated that online gambling is more addictive, isolating and damaging than traditional, in-person betting. And while society has clear protocols for addressing alcohol misuse, gambling still lags in both awareness and access to treatment. 

Let’s take a deep dive into the findings of this study, along with its limitations, and discuss how these findings align with results of other recent research. 

Findings from new research into online vs in-person gambling

According to the Datacorp environmental scan, which was completed in February 2025, online gamblers using mobile products are more likely to suffer from mental health issues, financial instability and strained relationships. These individuals tend to gamble for longer periods, play beyond their financial limits and are less able to control impulsive behavior.

Unlike in-person gambling, where individuals must take physical steps to continue play (such as withdrawing cash or loading a card), online gambling eliminates much of that friction. As Datacorp COO Susan Janke explained, “There’s no bumpers. There’s no breaks to go, 'You sure you want to spend more money?'”

The ability to gamble instantly from a smartphone or computer reduces the natural boundaries that might otherwise prompt self-reflection or pauses. In the digital age where friction is generally seen as a negative and product developers always aim to reduce it, there’s a strong argument that the traditional frictions of in-person betting being eliminated with high-end mobile products is actually not a positive advancement for society. 

Young Adults at Highest Risk

Young men aged 18 to 29 were found to be among the most vulnerable, with the study indicating that 29% of men and 26% of women in this group experience at least two gambling-related problems. This demographic also shows higher engagement in both legal and illegal forms of online gambling, including casino-style games that are officially prohibited in Wyoming.

Access, stigma and lack of awareness

While online gamblers are more likely to seek professional help compared to their in-person counterparts, the majority still do not reach out. In fact, 73% of those surveyed said they would not consider seeking help under any circumstances. Many respondents cited a lack of awareness about local resources in Laramie County and called for better training for facility staff, the formation of support groups and increased access to financial planning services.

Prevention and early intervention are crucial, particularly among young adults. Policy change at state and local levels highlights that lawmakers are often exposed only to the economic benefits of gambling, not its human costs.

The industry's influence and uneven resource distribution

Gambling establishments, like alcohol and tobacco vendors, often target low-income communities. Industry decisions tend to benefit the industry and not the community.

While Wyoming allocates the first $300,000 in tax revenue from online sports betting to county-level mental health initiatives, not all counties have accepted or been able to use the funds. Laramie County receives about $70,000 annually but lacks the infrastructure to fully address the issue.

Christin Covello, Clinical Director at Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, said the region is still in its foundational phase of response. While partnerships have been formed and staff have attended national conferences on gambling addiction, a cohesive treatment network has yet to materialize.

Connect with Birches Health today by clicking here, calling 833-483-3838 or emailing help@bircheshealth.com

Limitations of the research study 

While the study provides meaningful insights, it’s not without limitations (as is the case with most research studies, of course). 

First of all, the study naturally lacks geographic scope. The research focuses solely on Laramie County, Wyoming, and likely does not fully capture trends nationally, or likely even statewide. Wyoming is one of the least-populated states in the country and has limited gambling options. 

Second, we have no intel regarding the sample size, which limits transparency around statistical reliability. Publicly available reporting does not disclose the number of participants surveyed. 

And lastly, we are lacking resource awareness. Most respondents were unaware of the limited but growing resources in their area, which could have influenced perceptions of support availability. This is an issue itself nonetheless, however. Increased resources are not useful if very few are aware of them. 

Results from other recent gambling research studies

The results from Wyoming generally align with nationwide concerns. A recent NerdWallet survey found that 1 in 5 Americans placed a sports bet in the past year, with sports bettors spending an average of $3,284 annually, which is nearly double the average for all gamblers. Shockingly, 14% reported going into debt to support their gambling.

The survey also found that the top motivation for gambling is financial gain. 65% of respondents said they gamble to make extra money, and 31% even view it as a form of investment.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recently reported stunning research findings that over a quarter of American adults (28%) have a daily habit of gambling online.

A UK study of over 2,000 college students across 17 universities found that students are often sacrificing basic needs to fund their gambling habits. Nearly 10% of students reported reducing grocery spending to gamble, and a staggering 17% used student loan funds. The study estimates that almost 250,000 students in the UK struggle with gambling, with another 150,000 showing at-risk behaviors. The U.S. may not be far behind.

The stigma surrounding gambling addiction remains a major barrier to seeking help. Many individuals don’t recognize gambling as a legitimate mental health concern, or they fear judgment from family and peers. According to an Ipsos study, 39% of problem gamblers cited stigma as a key reason for not disclosing their struggles. 17% feel shame or embarrassment and 13% fear judgement or being labeled irresponsible.

Gambling Addiction treatment options 

The findings reinforce that gambling disorder is a serious, often “hidden” addiction that requires specialized care. For many, online gambling’s accessibility and lack of barriers make it harder to stop and easier to spiral into problem behaviors. But there is hope.

Birches Health offers insurance-covered, personalized, evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with gambling addiction, all from the comfort of home. Birches’ licensed clinicians work with patients to develop a treatment plan that meets their unique needs, whether that involves cognitive behavioral therapy, financial counseling or group support. And in places like remote areas of Wyoming where specialized counselors and group meetings are scarce, the virtual nature of the treatment program creates access for anyone with an internet connection. 

To connect with Birches Health, you can:

• Click to book an appointment 

• Call 833-483-3838

• Email help@bircheshealth.com