Seven years ago, only Nevada allowed gambling on sports. But thanks to a 2017 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, now all but a dozen states, including California, allow legalized sports betting.
A study out Monday finds a 23% increase in searches for the phrase “Am I addicted to gambling?”
Meanwhile, the amount bet on sports has surged from $4.9 billion in 2017 to $121 billion as of 2023.
The gaming industry, a euphemistic term for the gambling industry, claims to provide a form of entertainment. However, experts in addiction warn that gambling is highly addictive, and the easier it is to access, the more people will become hooked.
If you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction, call 1-800-GAMBLER (426-2537) for free, confidential help.
