Sports Gambling Addiction: Treatment for Betting Problems
Published:
Oct 4, 2024
,
12:25 p.m.
ET
Sports gambling is on the rise in the U.S. The amount wagered reached $310 million in 2018. Six years later, the monthly sports betting handle rose to $13.9 billion, a staggering increase of 4,400%.
Revenues from sports gambling alone are climbing at a rapid pace. It rose from $24.6 million in June 2018 to $1.5 billion in January 2024. According to the American Gaming Association, Americans bet $3 billion during March Madness.
The rapid rise of sports gambling has led to an uptick in mental health problems. This year, gambling addiction hotlines reported that calls are on the rise. Experts warn there's an increase in individuals who struggle with problem gambling.
What is Sports Gambling Addiction?
Sports gambling is also referred to as sports betting. This type of gambling involves placing bets on sporting events. It's become one of the most popular forms of gambling due to the accessibility of sports betting apps. In addition, sports betting has been legalized in 38 states, including Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.
While sports gambling has gone mainstream, it can be risky. Sports gambling addiction is a behavioral disorder that's characterized by an uncontrollable urge to bet on sports despite the negative consequences. Gambling triggers the brain's reward system, similar to substance abuse disorder.
Signs of Sports Gambling Addiction
Sports gambling can lead to negative outcomes. However, it can be difficult to recognize the signs of sports gambling. It’s important to be aware of these subtle signs whether you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction.
Sports gambling addiction is defined by an obsession with sports gambling and strategy play. There are other warning signs that someone could be suffering from gambling addiction. Signs include:
Inability to control or quit gambling
Hiding or lying about sports gambling
Struggling with withdrawal symptoms when not gambling
Sports gambling interferes with every aspect of daily life
Financial or legal implications
Mental health struggles or extreme mood swings as a result of gambling
Assessing sports gambling behaviors
The gambling assessment for sports betting is based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for gambling disorders. It assesses the individual's gambling habits within the past 12 months.
Birches Health has a free self-assessment that asks questions about sports gambling habits to determine if you may be at risk of or are currently exhibiting problematic gambling behavior. There is also a comprehensive guide that provides information on how to assess and treat sports gambling addiction.
This information can be used as a guide to learning more about gambling addiction, including the treatment and recovery process. Once problematic gambling has been determined, various treatment options are used.
If you are still unsure about your gambling habits or are concerned about someone you know, Birches Health offers free consultations from a gambling addiction specialist. They can be reached by clicking here, calling 833-483-3838, or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com
Treatment options for Sports Gambling Addiction
The three most common forms of treatment for sports gambling are psychotherapy, medication, and self-help support groups. Psychotherapy might involve cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals rewire their brains and adapt healthier coping mechanisms.
Medication might be prescribed to treat any co-occurring mental health disorders like depression, impulsivity disorder, or anxiety. Meanwhile, support groups offer individuals a safe environment to share their experiences with gambling addiction. Gamblers Anonymous is one example of a support group.
Birches Health offers a comprehensive virtual treatment program for gambling addiction that includes all three methods. Treatment can take place within the individual's natural environment. Virtual treatment is beneficial since it allows them to book appointments around their busy schedule.
There are multiple options for getting started with Birches Health:
You can also call us at 833-483-3838 or email us at hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with our Birches team as soon as possible.
Virtual therapy might be as effective as traditional therapy methods. It's accessible and affordable for individuals with physical and location limitations. Virtual can also be more approachable since it's tailored to each individual.
