Experts Warn of Sports Betting Addiction as Season Heats Up

As the football season intensifies, concerns regarding the potential for addiction stemming from casual sports betting are on the rise. Mental health experts caution that what may begin as harmless entertainment can evolve into a serious dependency.

Licensed mental health counselor Nicole Davidson-Harshaw emphasizes that the accessibility of online betting platforms, such as FanDuel and DraftKings, can lead individuals to underestimate their gambling habits. “It really can lead to a gradual moment of I don’t have to pull away because it is so easily available,” she stated, highlighting the risks associated with casual betting.

A significant shift in public perception towards sports betting is evident, according to recent data from Pew Research. The survey indicates that the skepticism among young adults regarding the legality of sports betting has increased markedly. For men under 30, the percentage viewing legal sports betting as harmful rose from 22% in 2022 to 47% in 2023. Among women in the same age group, this figure climbed from 25% to 35% over the same period.

Davidson-Harshaw points out that addiction can disrupt essential aspects of daily life. “Hygiene, social skills, eating habits, all of those things tend to take a back seat because of the addictive behavior,” she noted. As the act of betting becomes habitual, the leisure aspect diminishes, transforming it into a compulsive behavior.

In Florida, where sports betting remains legal, experts stress the need for responsible gambling practices. Davidson-Harshaw advises individuals to adopt a structured approach when engaging in sports betting. “Be honest with yourself,” she suggested. “Maybe even schedule hours when you will do the sports betting. So that is actually a scheduled activity and not simply taking control of you but your manifesting the way you want to mitigate that behavior.”

The key to preventing gambling from shifting from entertainment to addiction lies in recognizing personal limits. Mental health professionals are advocating for awareness and education around responsible gambling practices, especially as the popularity of sports betting continues to grow alongside professional sports seasons. By understanding the risks associated with gambling, individuals can enjoy sports betting responsibly and mitigate the potential for addiction.