Virginia Sees Surge in Younger Gamblers Amid Online Betting Boom

In Virginia, the advent of online sports betting has led to a significant rise in younger individuals seeking help for gambling-related issues. Since the legalization of sports betting in January 2021, the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling has reported a striking increase in calls for assistance, particularly among the youth demographic.

According to the Virginia Lottery, bettors in the state placed over $510 million on sports during August 2023, with more than $506 million wagered through mobile platforms. This trend reflects a broader shift in gambling habits, as a recent survey by the Pew Research Center indicates that 1 in 10 adults has engaged in online sports betting within the past year.

Impact of Mobile Betting on Youth

The accessibility of mobile betting has raised concerns among experts, particularly regarding its impact on younger populations. Carolyn Hawley, president of the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling, has noted that gambling can be as addictive as substances like alcohol and drugs. She stated, “What we’ve found is that the correlation between gambling and substances is so similar that gambling itself is considered the first behavioral addiction.”

With the ability to gamble anywhere and anytime, young people are at an increased risk of developing gambling addictions. Hawley highlights a cultural shift, stating, “Gambling is a part of life that it wasn’t, perhaps, for most individuals in previous generations.” The rise of celebrity endorsements and social media influencers promoting gambling has further normalized these activities among youth.

A study conducted in Australia revealed that young respondents often view gambling as “okay” and “acceptable” due to influencer marketing. Hawley shared her personal experience as a parent, noting that her young son recently discussed gambling, underscoring the pervasive nature of this marketing.

The Virginia Council on Problem Gambling has witnessed a staggering 1,500% increase in calls for help from 2019 to 2024, with a more than 200% increase in individuals specifically seeking treatment for gambling problems. The most affected age groups include those aged 18 to 24 and 25 to 34, highlighting a demographic shift since the legalization of sports betting.

Voices from the Ground

Matthew Britt, a certified peer recovery specialist for the Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health, shared his own journey with gambling addiction. He recalled early memories of gambling with family, which ultimately contributed to his addiction. Britt emphasized that the normalization of gambling makes it challenging for many to view it negatively.

He recounted, “I have an uncle that gives out lottery tickets for Christmas,” illustrating how gambling activities are often integrated into family traditions. Britt also noted that individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to develop gambling problems, a finding supported by research from the National Library of Medicine.

Britt’s recovery journey has been marked by a shift in how he engages with sports. “The hardest part for me was getting used to watching sports without thinking about what I could have won,” he explained. As he continues to support others in recovery, he emphasizes the importance of hope, stating, “People aren’t as alone as the disease of addiction wants them to feel.”

For those grappling with gambling issues, assistance is available through the National Council on Problem Gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700. This increasing trend in gambling among younger individuals reflects a broader cultural shift that requires attention and action from communities and policymakers alike.