On Sunday, February 12, people all over the world will tune in to watch Super Bowl LVII, and many of those individuals plan to place a sports wager. The American Gaming Association (AGA) estimated that over 31 million people in the United States wagered over $7 billion on last year’s professional football championship game. These numbers have significantly increased annually, with this trend expected to continue in 2023 and beyond.
The second National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences (NGAGE 2.0), a survey created by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in 2018, identified a significant increase in problematic gambling activity. Problematic play was found to be especially prevalent among two at-risk groups: sports bettors including those who play daily fantasy sports, and younger gamblers (ages 18 to 44). The study also indicated that almost two-thirds of Americans, or 220 million people, do not know where to get help for a gambling problem.
Nebraskans struggling with problem gambling, as well as their loved ones, are encouraged to call or text the Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837). This number is answered 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week by a trained counselor, and calls remain completely confidential. Callers may receive crisis intervention as well as referrals for local treatment resources.
Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse, and mental health through a holistic approach so all co-occurring issues may be addressed. Visit www.choicestreatmentcenter.com for more information.