Know where to find addiction help –
Nov. 6, 2020 – Whyte said gambling addiction looks very similar to other kinds of addiction like substance abuse; the need for money, separation from loved ones, in some cases people trying to break the addiction can experience physical withdrawals.
“We know people with severe gambling problems have some of the highest rates of suicidal behavior of any of the other addictive disorders,” explained Whyte.
He said while there may be skill in betting on sporting events, knowing the statistics to potentially win, it is still largely chance. He warns online sports betting should not be used to make a living and believing so could be signs of an addiction.
“It is not just bad behavior its not just someone who spends a little money once or twice,” said Whyte.
Whyte also explained part of the revenue made in Tennessee from gambling and betting, about 5%, goes back into funding assistance for people getting addicted to gambling.
Learn more about the National Council on Problem Gambling by clicking here.
