Study Finds Increase in Gambling Addiction Help Searches After Sports Betting Legalization

While search volumes for gambling addiction resources have risen, experts caution against equating this trend with a surge in gambling disorders.

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine reports a 23% rise in internet searches related to gambling addiction help since sports betting legalization in 2018.
Searches for gambling help increased more rapidly in states with legalized sports betting, reaching peak volumes in 2024, according to researchers.
Experts note that increased search activity does not necessarily indicate a rise in clinical gambling disorders, as search data cannot reliably measure intent or prevalence.
States have reaped significant tax revenue from sports betting but often allocate limited resources to address gambling addiction, with some dedicating less than $400,000 annually.
The medical community and public health agencies have been criticized for insufficient research, training, and regulations to address gambling-related harms in the era of widespread online sports betting.