A Growing Crisis: Gambling Addiction and the Lack of Resources to Fight It
Sports gambling is still in its infancy stages and still more prevalent than ever — we should be fearful of what is yet to come.
I often refer to gambling addiction as the cigarettes of the 2020s. Sports betting apps are now legal in 39 U.S. states, and they are still in the early stages of entering mainstream society. With legalization has come constant advertising, rapid normalization, and unprecedented accessibility. In a matter of seconds—from a compulsive thought to a mere tap on a phone—anyone can place a bet.
Yet while access and profits have skyrocketed, resources for gambling prevention and treatment remain dangerously limited.
The Resource Gap in Gambling Addiction Treatment
Compared to more “conventional” addictions like alcohol or drugs, the difference is striking. Substance abuse treatment programs are widely accessible, available in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and often covered by insurance.
By contrast, gambling-specific treatment programs are far more limited. There is a shortage of dedicated gambling treatment centers, and many gambling helplines are underfunded, difficult to find, or inconsistent in the services they provide. Inpatient centers and programs may offer to help, but it is most often under the wider umbrella of all-compassing "addiction" and not gambling-focused.
In most advertisements for sports gambling apps—whether on billboards, TV, or social media—a small disclaimer about problem gambling will briefly appear on the bottom. The fine print is nearly invisible and often disappears in seconds. Call the number provided, and you’ll likely be directed to Gamblers Anonymous, not to a comprehensive, insurance-covered, or medically supported recovery program.
The equivalent of the Marlboro Man for gambling is alive and well—only now, it shows up during sports broadcasts, on mobile devices, and in everyday life: it has already wedged itself into complete and utter normalization in society.
Profits vs. Public Health
Online gambling and sports betting legalization has exploded in just the past few years, and profits have already exceeded expectations. But unlike tobacco or alcohol, where regulations eventually caught up to the public health consequences, gambling addiction is spreading unchecked.
What makes this crisis even more complicated is that governments directly profit from gambling revenues, while the medical and therapeutic communities struggle to provide adequate gambling recovery resources. This creates a dangerous conflict of interest: prioritizing revenue over public health.
Why Gambling Addiction Is Unique
We are no longer in an age where gambling requires a trip to Las Vegas or a local casino. Mobile sports betting and online live casinos mean that gambling is accessible anywhere, anytime.
Unlike other addictions, gambling carries a unique psychological hook: false hope. For people struggling with problem gambling, the phrase “one last time” carries the seductive promise that all losses can be won back—and, even, multiplied. This cycle fuels relapse, making gambling addiction treatment especially challenging.
The Human Toll of Gambling
As with other addictions, the signs of gambling disorder are clear: preoccupation with gambling, neglect of relationships, falling behind in work or school, and allowing the addiction to cast a wide cloud over and dictate one’s choices. But because gambling leaves no physical trace, it is often minimized or ignored until financial collapse or family crisis occurs.
And while gambling addiction does not discriminate—affecting people of all ages, genders, and income levels—the resources to help remain far behind.
Looking Ahead: Closing the Gap in Gambling Recovery
Clinicians and therapists are being forced to play catch-up in a rapidly evolving and dangerously spreading epidemic. Gambling addiction in the U.S. is not a niche concern—it is a public health crisis.
This blog post is the first of a three-part series that will explore why gambling addiction is so dangerous and often overlooked, as well as where to begin when seeking gambling treatment and support.
The flashing lights of casinos and the convenience of sports betting apps may grab headlines, but it’s the hidden losses—financial, emotional, and relational—that tell the real story. It’s time to bring problem gambling out of the shadows and talk about the issue openly to start the long path of being able to provide people with the help they deserve.
Take action today! If you’re looking for a therapist who specializes in gambling addiction, I offer in-person and virtual sessions in New York and virtual sessions in Connecticut, Florida, and Vermont.
âś… Individual therapy for:
Identifying the signs of gambling addiction
Discussing how and why problem gambling is different from other vices and so difficult to quit
Putting treatment goals and action plans into place
