The recent approval by the New York State Gaming Commission for three casinos in Queens and the Bronx has sparked significant concerns regarding gambling addiction and its potential impact on public health. While the allure of billions in revenue from gaming, hotels, and retail taxes is seen as a boon for surrounding communities, the consequences of gambling addiction appear to be an afterthought.
In her guest essay, Heather Hugelmeyer, LCSW, a senior director for behavioral health at Northwell Health, expressed deep apprehension about the situation. She highlighted that her team will face the repercussions of what she describes as the shift from “entertainment” to addiction. Patients suffering from gambling use disorder—recognized as a legitimate addiction—are already part of New York’s evolving gambling landscape.
The recent decision by the Gaming Facility Location Board to grant licenses for three casinos in one region, followed by the commission’s approval, may exacerbate existing issues. As these casinos prepare to open—two aiming for a 2030 launch—Hugelmeyer warns that there will likely be a surge in calls to gambling help lines. This surge could coincide with a rise in associated problems, including binge drinking, substance use, and mental health issues.
Research indicates that many individuals mistakenly believe they can win at gambling, a dangerous misconception that underscores the need for increased awareness. According to Hugelmeyer, intrusive and compulsive thoughts are common across all addictions, whether related to substances or gambling. Neurobiological studies support classifying gambling disorder alongside other addictions, emphasizing that the brain’s reward system can become activated by the uncertainty of gambling outcomes.
The phrase “please gamble responsibly” is frequently heard in casinos and advertisements, yet such messaging is ineffective against the underlying neurobiology of addiction. Despite a growing understanding of addiction among treatment professionals, gambling proponents often emphasize personal responsibility without acknowledging the complexities of addiction.
The lessons learned from past public health crises, such as the tobacco epidemic of the late 20th century and the ongoing opioid crisis, illustrate the urgent need for a proactive approach. Hugelmeyer advocates for a shift in focus, calling for a new strategy that prioritizes public health over revenue generation.
As the economic benefits of the new casinos remain uncertain, it is crucial to recognize that increased accessibility and acceptability of gambling typically lead to higher rates of participation and, consequently, higher rates of related issues. The belief that one can win at gambling is a perilous myth; the true beneficiaries are the house and the gambling apps.
To combat the impending challenges, families and communities need to be educated on the signs of problem gambling. Northwell Health is proactively addressing this issue by adopting a public health approach. This includes treating gambling as a primary addiction, implementing screenings to identify potential problem gamblers, and educating school leaders about the increasing prevalence of gambling among teenagers.
Children and adolescents are at a heightened risk for developing gambling problems, and those who begin gambling at a young age are more likely to experience addiction later in life. Hugelmeyer emphasizes the importance of conveying the message that “no one is one bet away from a life-changing victory.”
As New York prepares for the introduction of the new casinos, it is imperative that this message resonates louder than the excitement surrounding their opening. The upcoming years will determine the long-term effects of this expansion, but the need for preventative measures and education is urgent.
