The Hard Truth About Gambling And Mental Health

Gambling disorder and broader patterns of problematic gambling behavior are characterized by difficulty limiting time or money spent on gambling, which may lead to negative personal or social outcomes. Individuals experiencing gambling-related difficulties may: 

• Rapidly increase the amount of money they spend on bets
• Become restless when they stop betting
• Are often preoccupied with the thought of gambling

The expansion of online sports betting has increased accessibility, which may contribute to higher exposure and, for some individuals, increased risk of developing gambling-related difficulties.

Common Co-Occurring Disorders Of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is often not the only behavioral challenge players can face. Research indicates that gambling disorder is one of the most comorbid conditions in psychiatry. Data from the National Comorbidity Study suggests that up to 96% of individuals with a gambling disorder meet the criteria for at least one other lifetime psychiatric disorder, and more than 60% report with three or more. 

Some of the most common-occurring disorders of problem gambling include:

• Mood Disorders: Major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder are highly prevalent co-occurring disorders of problem gambling, with some studies showing nearly 50% of disordered gamblers reporting a mood disorder. Social isolation, impulse control and a feeling of hopelessness are common in those who experience these conditions. Recent ICRG-funded studies on young adults aged 18–25, have shown that problem sports betting is strongly correlated with elevated levels of loneliness, stress, and lower life satisfaction.
  
• Anxiety Disorders: Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety and panic disorder are also common comorbid mental health conditions associated with problem gambling. Some individuals may engage in gambling as a way of coping with anxiety. While short-term relief may be experienced, this pattern can, for some, contribute to repeated engagement that reinforces both anxiety and gambling behavior.
  
• Substance Abuse Disorders: Alcohol and drug use are the most common companions to problem gambling. They often arise as a result of problem gambling, as players seek ways to manage their stress or emotions. Substance use and gambling behaviors often co-occur, with each potentially reinforcing the other in ways that can increase overall risk.
  
• Personality Disorders: Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity or difficulties with emotional regulation, have been associated with increased vulnerability to gambling-related harm.
  

The Importance Of Sports Betting-Related Mental Health Research

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has been at the forefront of identifying how these associations manifest, specifically within the rapidly growing sector of sports wagering. 

According to a 2026 ICRG-funded study published in Addictive Behaviors, depression and anxiety are significantly related to problem sports betting. The research identified coping methods among participants, such as using betting as a form of self-medication to deal with negative emotion, escape the numbing effects of depression or quiet the high-frequency noise of anxiety. Some participants reported using betting as a way to manage negative emotional states, with short-term reinforcement potentially contributing to continued engagement.

Further sports betting studies reveal young adults who exhibit symptoms of problem gambling also score high on indices of mental health symptomology. However, this emerging area of public health interest has been largely unexplored due to a lack of research and funding, putting the greater population at risk. Fortunately, the International Center for Responsible Gaming is closing this gap. As a leading funder of independent, peer-reviewed research on gambling and its impacts, ICRG is shaping policy and driving progress for the gaming industry and those affected. To learn more about the unbiased, peer-reviewed research we fund, visit icrg.org.

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Recent casino gambling comparison research funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) suggests that sports betting in its modern, mobile form can present unique risk factors that lead to higher rates of problematic behavior compared to traditional, in-person casino gambling. 

What Makes Sports Betting Unique

Since becoming legalized in 2018, the sports betting industry has seen exponential growth, with total wagers going from $4.9 billion in 2017 to $121.1 billion in 2023. This has also coincided with increased reports of problem gambling. The percentage of internet searches for help with problem gambling has risen at nearly the same rate during the same time period, with searches surging 61% since its legalization.

Some sports betting studies suggest that the prevalence of gambling-related problems may be higher among individuals who bet on sports in mobile environments. For example, while about 1-2% of the general population may meet the criteria for a gambling disorder, that number can climb to 16% for those who primarily engage in online sports betting.

Sports Betting Vs. Casino Gambling Comparison

The primary driver behind the rising concern over sports betting is not just the act of wagering, but the psychology of skill. When evaluating the behaviors of traditional casino gamblers versus online sports bettors, it’s important to compare the differences and similarities between the two. Factors that may influence addictiveness include:

• Illusion of Control: Casino games (like slots or roulette) are widely recognized as games of pure chance. Conversely, sports bettors often believe their knowledge of a team, player stats, or weather conditions gives them an edge. The illusion of control may influence decision-making and perceptions of risk, fueling the urge to chase losses.
• Accessibility: Increased accessibility, including 24/7 mobile availability, may contribute to more frequent engagement and reduced natural breaks between betting opportunities. Traditionally, a casino provided a physical barrier to entry, as most casinos are restricted to small geographic areas that require travel. In contrast, sports betting is available 24/7 on a smartphone. This allows players to easily integrate gambling into their daily routine from the comfort of their homes. 
• Frequency: Features like “in-play” or “micro-betting” (betting on the next play, pitch, or point) increase event frequency, which may reduce time between decisions and influence impulsive behavior for some users.
• Socialization: In traditional casino gambling, gamblers interact face-to-face, leading to a social aspect that can occasionally distract from the games and bets. Online sports betting shifts the social context of gambling, with less in-person interaction and greater individual engagement.
  

Emerging Risks Considerations For Sports Betting

Research funded by the ICRG has also identified a strong correlation between frequent sports betting and other addictive behaviors. A 2025 study highlighted that sports bettors are more likely to experience co-occurring issues, particularly hazardous alcohol use and high levels of stress or anxiety. Because sports betting is often viewed as a social, competitive hobby, the transition from fan to problem gambler can be harder to spot than in a traditional casino setting.

The Importance Of Funding Sports Betting Research

The rise of sports betting is creating a growing and evolving population of sports bettors whose behaviors and risk profiles are not yet fully understood. However, this populace has largely been unexplored due to a lack of research and funding. To bridge the gap in understanding sports betting, the International Center for Responsible Gaming supports research to better understand these patterns and inform evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. 

To learn more about our research, visit icrg.org.

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Emerging Gaming Trends From NEXT.Io

First, the emergence of prediction markets signals a fundamental shift in how consumers engage with risk. These products sit at the intersection of financial trading and gambling, and while their ultimate regulatory classification remains uncertain, their behavioral dynamics are not. They introduce new forms of speculative engagement that demand closer study, particularly as they appeal to younger and more digitally native audiences.

Second, the continued fragmentation of the U.S. regulatory landscape is creating uneven consumer protections. As new verticals such as sweepstakes platforms, social casinos, and skill-based gaming expand, many operate outside traditional regulatory frameworks. This reality challenges us to think beyond jurisdictional boundaries and toward more consistent, evidence-based standards of player protection.

Third, technology is rapidly redefining both opportunity and risk. Artificial intelligence and advanced data systems are enabling highly personalized user experiences, but they also offer powerful tools for early identification of problematic play. The question before us is not whether these tools will be used, but how intentionally and effectively they will be deployed in the service of player well-being.

Finally, one overarching trend is clear: the industry is converging toward more immersive, continuous, and speculative forms of entertainment.

The Increased Need For Gambling Research Funding

For those of us in the responsible gaming community, these developments are a call to action. We must accelerate research into emerging products and player behaviors. We must strengthen collaboration across sectors, including regulators, operators, and technology providers. We must ensure that innovation in gaming is matched, if not exceeded, by innovation in player protection. 

The future of this industry will not be defined solely by growth, but by how responsibly that growth is managed.

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A recent publication from this work introduces a novel concept: “gambling satisfaction” as a potential indicator of gambling-related harm.

What Is Gambling Satisfaction?

Traditionally, gambling research has focused almost exclusively on harms and deficits. This study takes a different approach by examining how individuals evaluate their own gambling experiences, and what those evaluations reveal about risk.

Using large-scale survey data from both online and land-based gamblers, the research found that:

• Gambling satisfaction is negatively associated with problem gambling severity
• It is positively associated with financial well-being and overall life satisfaction
• A simple, one-item measure of gambling satisfaction can help identify individuals experiencing harm, particularly when combined with other indicators

Importantly, the findings suggest that gambling satisfaction reflects more than just wins or losses. It is shaped by factors such as:

• Sense of control
• Financial outcomes
• Social and environmental context
• Perceptions of gambling as entertainment versus obligation

Identifying Gambling-Related Harm

This work represents a shift toward non-stigmatizing, person-centered approaches to identifying and addressing gambling-related harm. By focusing on how individuals experience gambling, rather than only on symptoms, this approach may support more effective screening, earlier intervention, and more meaningful engagement with responsible gambling tools.

As part of the broader Center of Excellence program, this research is complemented by ongoing studies using real-world behavioral data, co-designed interventions, and targeted messaging strategies to improve uptake of protective tools among at-risk populations. Together, these efforts reflect ICRG’s commitment to advancing innovative, actionable research that bridges science, policy, and practice. Review more information on all ICRG-funded grants.

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Unlocking Gambling Harm Detection Strategies

The event brought together over 130 attendees, including clinicians, researchers, regulators, and responsible gaming professionals from across New Mexico and beyond. Participants earned up to six continuing education credits while engaging with leading experts on

topics ranging from evidence-based treatment approaches to emerging gambling modalities and co-occurring risks. The program featured presentations from Rory Pfund, Nassim Tabri, Lia Nower, and Nick McAfee, who provided attendees with practical

tools and new insights into evolving challenges in the field.

Feedback from participants underscores the impact of the event. Attendees cited continuing education opportunities, timely topics, and high-quality speakers as key reasons for attending, with the majority indicating that the content was directly relevant to their work. The conference also saw strong engagement from returning participants and professional networks, reflecting growing demand for accessible, evidence-based education in this space.

Importantly, the audience was composed largely of frontline providers, including social workers, counselors, and addiction specialists, highlighting the conference’s role in strengthening capacity where it is most needed. 

Continued Partnership In Responsible Gambling Research

This event builds on ICRG’s ongoing commitment to bridging research and practice, ensuring that the latest evidence informs real- world treatment, prevention, and policy efforts. We thank Sandia Resort & Casino for their continued support, and the success of the conference reinforces the value of regional, practitioner-focused programming and sets the stage for continued collaboration in 2027 and beyond.

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Tribal Sports Betting Risks

As gaming continues to expand, including through sports betting and mobile platforms, the landscape is changing quickly. What was once limited to physical locations is now accessible at any time, from almost anywhere. These changes bring opportunity, but they also introduce new challenges. Greater accessibility, faster play, and the normalization of betting can increase risk, often before problems are recognized.

For Tribal communities, those risks extend beyond the individual. Because gaming revenues help sustain critical community programs and services, community well-being and the long-term strength of Tribal gaming are deeply connected. Protecting one helps protect the other.

The Importance Of Tribal Gambling Research

That is why Tribal-specific research matters. Much of the existing research on gambling behavior focuses on the general population and does not always reflect the lived experiences, cultural values, or priorities of Tribal nations. Without research that includes Indigenous perspectives, communities may be left without the full picture needed to shape prevention, education, and support strategies that truly fit their needs.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, so does an important question: how can research better support Tribal communities in protecting both public health and the long-term benefits of Tribal gaming?

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