The growth of online sports betting among college students β as many as one in four in the last year by one study β has ΒιΆΉΣ³»΄«Γ½ health professionals urging caution among students.
Overall, online sports betting continues to surge in popularity, with a projected revenue of $100 billion in 2023, according to the American Gaming Association. Among college students, a 2023 survey revealed 60% of students gambled illegally and one in five used financial aid to support their habit.
The lure of βbig winsβ and advertising that promises low-risk fun is often the starting line, says Stephanie Spies, director of Wellness and Health Promotion Services at ΒιΆΉΣ³»΄«Γ½.
βPeople only talk about their wins; they donβt discuss the losses,β Spies says.
That culture of silence and the social nature of sports betting contribute to a lack of stigma, particularly as compared to something like substance abuse. When sports betting gets out of control, itβs easier to hide than other addictive behaviors until itβs too late, says Karen Hofmann, director of ΒιΆΉΣ³»΄«Γ½βs Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).
βIf youβre failing at it, no one is aware,β Hofmann says.
Developing a habit typically comes incrementally. For instance, a few bets and wins with friends over the March Madness season can still become problematic. Thatβs particularly the case when paired with other stressors like midterms, says Jennifer Calame, assistant director of Substance Use Disorder Services at ΒιΆΉΣ³»΄«Γ½βs Student Health Services.
βStudents feel like itβs not a problem because they donβt do it all the time,β she says. βBut that doesnβt mean it canβt become problematic.β
There are several signs that sports betting is out of control, including:
- Financial issues: Inability to pay bills, frequently asking for money
- Neglecting responsibilities: Skipping classes, staying up late to gamble, missing work
- Relationship issues: Irritability, compulsive behavior, lying
Hofmann encourages anyone experiencing issues with sports betting to reach out and seek help. It can feel overwhelming, but there are ways to cope and make better behavioral choices. Calame reinforces that message and would applaud any student with the courage to seek assistance.
βThere is still hope for you,β she says.
For immediate help, call or text the National Gambling Hotline: 1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537). For free counseling, reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 407-823-2811.
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