ALL IN –
Nov. 11, 2025 – Betting: today’s sports gamblers can bet on much more than just the winner of a game. Sports gamblers can bet — during the game — on hundreds and potentially thousands of discrete events. Any aspect of a team or player’s performance or activity that can be measured is now a potential wager. This shortens the lag between bet and reward, increasing the speed and frequency of gambling, which increases the risk of problematic behavior. Professional Athletes Frequently Gamble on Sports: Sports gambling is widespread among professional athletes. While no study of gambling among U.S. professional athletes is publicly available, such studies have been conducted elsewhere. One recent European report showed that 57% of professional athletes surveyed gambled on sports in the previous year, with 8% exhibiting problem gambling behavior, roughly three times greater than the general population.
Dr. Stratyner says “Sports betting to often can lead to addiction, financial loss and emotional distress. The excitement of winning often masks the reality of losing more over time creating a dangerous cycle of chasing losses. It can strain relationships, impair judgement and even lead to serious mental health issues. The best treatment for sports betting addiction combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change gambling related thoughts and behaviors with support groups like Gamblers Anonymous for peer accountability. In some cases, medication to manage impulsivity or coexisting anxiety can also help.
To interview Dr. Stratyner in his New York Office or via Zoom – Contact – Fred Yaeger (914) 525-9198
