Rising Gambling Rates Point to Public Health Concern in Florida
PENSACOLA, Fla. — Alarm bells are ringing as the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling reports a staggering 50 percent increase in calls for help over the past year. This significant uptick has sparked conversations across the nation about the implications of accessible online gambling and the need for a public health approach to tackle the issue.
Experts, including Dr. Rob Rotunda, a psychology professor at the University of West Florida, contend that gambling has drastically evolved. “I think there’s more access nowadays, given the online environment,” he explained. “You used to have to drive to the casino to place a bet. Now, the casino comes to you through apps like FanDuel, DraftKings, and PrizePicks.” This convenience, according to Amanda Fayard, clinical supervisor at Lakeview’s Road to Recovery, has made gambling almost effortless for the average consumer.
Statistics from the National Council on Problem Gambling highlight that approximately 2.5 million Americans grapple with severe gambling problems, while an additional 5 to 8 million face milder issues. The ramifications of gambling addiction can be dire, affecting mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and relationship breakdowns. Dr. Rotunda adds, “Bankruptcy, family problems, divorce, separation can all occur when people get to the point that their life revolves around gambling.”
The issue extends beyond individual suffering. A recent editorial in the Lancet Public Health Journal calls on governments to recognize gambling as a public health crisis, particularly among vulnerable populations. Children and young adults represent an increasing number of gamblers, influenced heavily by the pervasive nature of digital marketing and gambling apps. Research conducted by the American Psychological Association in 2023 indicates that individuals in their early 20s are the fastest-growing demographic in this regard.
Fayard cautioned that gambling can contribute to the formation of habits that lead to addiction beyond just gambling, particularly when children are involved. “It creates those pathways in their brain to seek that feeling and get that dopamine hit,” she noted.
Although Dr. Rotunda does not yet believe online gambling has reached a public health crisis status, he stresses the importance of continued research and accessible services in Florida. “We should be actively researching it in the state of Florida and have services available for when certain people need it,” he stated.
The Bible teaches us to be mindful of our habits and choices. Proverbs 22:7 reminds us, “The borrower is a slave to the lender.” This verse subtly illustrates the potential chains of debt and dependency that gambling can create in our lives.
As we reflect on these pressing concerns, it becomes clear that the moment calls for compassion and community support. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, remember there is help available. You can contact the national problem gambling hotline at 1-800-GAMBLER or reach out to Florida-based assistance at 888-ADMIT-IT.
In this time of uncertainty, consider how we can build healthier habits and support one another. Let us seek to invest our time and energy in pursuits that promote well-being and reflect the values of integrity and community. The deeper truth lies in the understanding that every choice we make carries weight—may we choose wisely, for ourselves and for those we love.
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