Researchers at the University of Maryland have raised concerns over a notable rise in gambling disorders since the legalization of online sports betting in 2022. According to a recent study conducted by the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, the percentage of Maryland residents experiencing gambling-related harm has increased from 4% to 5.7% following this legislative change.
The researchers based their findings on a survey of 3,600 respondents, who were questioned about their gambling habits. Dr. Christopher Welsh, the medical director at the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling and a professor of psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, emphasized the seriousness of gambling addiction. He stated that it parallels other well-documented addictive behaviors, such as substance and alcohol abuse.
Dr. Welsh explained, “It’s very similar to other addictions. With compulsive gambling, individuals cannot stop even if they face negative consequences like losing money. Withdrawal symptoms can manifest similarly to those associated with alcohol addiction, where individuals may experience feelings of anxiety or jitteriness.”
The implications of gambling addiction extend beyond the individual, often affecting family members and friends. Those struggling with this disorder may resort to unethical means, including criminal activity, to finance their gambling habits, further complicating their circumstances.
The Broader Impact of Gambling Addiction
The researchers highlighted that gambling addiction can have dire consequences, including elevated suicide rates among affected individuals. Dr. Welsh noted, “Suicide rates, both attempted and completed, are higher among those with gambling addiction compared to other types of addiction.” This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and support for individuals facing this issue.
Maryland is not alone in experiencing this trend. Similar concerns have emerged in West Virginia, where experts have reported rising addiction rates among youth and student-athletes following the legalization of sports betting. Some argue that legalization may not only be increasing the number of gambling disorders but also improving the identification and treatment of affected individuals.
As gambling becomes more regulated, it is suggested that those who need help are being brought to light, rather than the number of addicts simply increasing. This perspective indicates a potential shift in how gambling disorders are perceived and managed in society.
The findings from the University of Maryland’s study serve as a crucial reminder of the complexities surrounding gambling addiction. With increased access to gambling platforms, the focus must now shift towards understanding the associated risks and providing appropriate support to those in need.
