Online betting and gaming websites have made gambling more accessible than ever, blurring the lines between harmless entertainment and potentially serious problems. For some, what starts as a casual game can escalate into addictive behavior, creating a cycle of emotional strain and financial stress that can feel impossible to break free from. 

Fortunately, as problem gambling becomes more common, so do support services and other resources that can help those struggling get back on the path towards stability. Below we’ll explore how to recognize problem gambling and highlight the resources that can help you or a loved one regain stability.

A Rapidly Growing Phenomenon

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) estimates that between 2018 and 2021, the risk of gambling addiction grew by 30%. And from 2021 to 2022, the organization also reported a 45% increase in calls, texts, and chats to their National Problem Gambling helpline. They attribute some of this increase to the 2018 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that opened the door to  legal sports betting, but the increased prevalence of online casinos and other betting apps are likely also contributing to escalations in problem gambling. 

The Lancet Public Health Commission on gambling warns that online gambling, accessible 24/7 to anyone with internet access, is becoming a growing public health threat. As of October 2024, the Commission estimates that approximately 54.7 million men and 25.3 million women “experience gambling disorder or problematic gambling” – figures they consider conservative, as problem gambling impacts the friends and families of those who face gambling issues as well.

Defining Problem Gambling

According to the NCPG, problem gambling can also be referred to as “gambling addiction” or “gambling disorder” – but regardless of its name, the organization defines it as gambling behavior that’s harmful to the gambler or the people in their life, often disrupting their daily life and career. 

This is similar to Psychology Today's definition of “compulsive gambling” as someone who is unable to resist their impulses to gamble.

While the terms describe similar harmful behaviors, the distinction often lies in whether the behavior is being described generally (problem gambling) or diagnosed clinically (gambling addiction or disorder).

When a Gambling Habit Becomes a Cause for Concern

The NCPG offers an online assessment to help you identify whether gambling has become a dangerous compulsion. They also list these warning signs of problem gambling:

• Constantly thinking about gambling
• Feeling compelled to bet more money, more often
• Gambling again to try winning back your money 
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to gamble less or stop altogether
• Experiencing a sense of losing self-control
• Gambling even though it’s causing financial or emotional problems

Where to Turn for Support

If an assessment like the NCPG’s reveals a problem, or if loved ones are expressing concern about your behavior – or that of a friend or family member – the NCPG also provides a free, confidential, multi-lingual hotline staffed by experts who can recommend the right resources. People struggling with gambling and their loved ones can call the NCPG’s National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER. You can also find text and chat options at the NCPG’s website. 

There are a variety of approaches to address problem gambling, including outpatient and residential treatment, counseling, and peer support. In addition to the NCPG, here are other resources you can turn to for support: 

Gamblers Anonymous - A 12-step support group offering peer support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) - Offers educational resources and research on gambling addiction, aimed at prevention and recovery support.

National Helpline from SAMHSA - The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline offering referrals to treatment facilities and support groups nationwide.

Gam-Anon - A support group for family members and loved ones affected by someone else’s gambling. It provides tools and peer support to help families cope.

The Recovery Village - A network of treatment centers providing inpatient and outpatient services, counseling, and education for those struggling with gambling addiction and co-occurring disorders.

How Technology Can Help Put Gambling Guardrails in Place

While technology and internet access have contributed to the rise in problem gambling, it can also be used as a tool for prevention. Blocking software that restricts access to gambling websites and apps across devices can be particularly useful – GamBlock and BetBlocker being two examples.

Putting financial guardrails in place can also help stem the problem of compulsive gambling. Some people may choose to hand over all financial decisions and money to a loved one, but this loss of autonomy and inability to make purchases on their own can be a difficult step to take. With the True Link Visa® Prepaid Card, a family member can use the platform’s Spending Monitor to directly prevent access to cash, and block gambling websites, casino-related purchases, and other trouble spots. But purchases can still be allowed at any merchant or vendor category that isn’t blocked, making it easier for the cardholder to maintain their regular routines and financial independence. 

There are also some other financial services and tools that can help address problem gambling, along with other steps you can take to help a loved one get their finances back on track. In the event that gambling has already caused significant financial losses, you might also consider working with a financial counselor. Certain organizations like GamFin or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) even offer free or low-cost financial counseling to help get you started.

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Experts caution that putting restrictions on spending is only part of the equation when trying to address a gambling addiction. Problem gambling is also an emotional and mental health issue, which can make it seem overwhelming to overcome. The good news is that there are more treatment options available today than ever, and getting the right help for your recovery, or the recovery of a loved one, is possible.

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