A recent NBC News report highlighted new research showing that diagnoses of gambling disorder have increased significantly in states where sports betting has been legalized. The report summarized findings from an Epic Research study of more than 197 million U.S. adults, which found that diagnosed gambling disorder increased by approximately 61% in states with legalized sports betting, while diagnoses declined in states that did not legalize sports betting. Researchers also found that the largest proportional increase occurred among adults ages 18 to 29, although adults ages 30 to 49 had the highest overall rates of diagnosed gambling disorder.
It is important to remember that sports betting itself does not mean someone has a gambling problem. For many people, it is an occasional form of entertainment. However, behavioral health experts recognize that easier access to gambling may increase the risk for some individuals.
What Is Gambling Disorder?
Gambling disorder is a recognized mental health condition in which a person continues to gamble despite experiencing financial, emotional, social, or occupational consequences. It is classified as a behavioral addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) because it affects many of the same brain reward pathways involved in substance use disorders.
Warning Signs
Some signs that gambling may be becoming a problem include:
- Spending more money than intended.
- Feeling unable to stop or cut back on gambling.
- Chasing losses by continuing to gamble after losing money.
- Hiding gambling from family or friends.
- Borrowing money or using credit to continue gambling.
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences at home, work, or school.
Recognizing these warning signs early can make it easier to seek help before gambling causes more serious problems.
Treatment Can Help
Like many behavioral health conditions, gambling disorder is treatable. Counseling can help individuals understand the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to gambling, develop healthier coping strategies, and rebuild relationships and financial stability.
Seeking help early can make a meaningful difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling or another behavioral health concern, Friendship House provides compassionate outpatient behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and adults. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 800-226-0456 or visit www.friendshiphousepa.org to request an appointment online.
References
NBC News. Diagnoses of gambling disorder rose more than 60% in states that legalized sports betting, study finds. June 26, 2026.
Bartelt K, Cox C, Deckert J, Fox B, Sahakian S. Gambling Disorder Diagnoses Have Risen More Than 60% in States That Legalized Sports Betting. Epic Research. June 26, 2026.