Black History Month and How Problem Gambling Impacts African Americans

Black History Month provides an important opportunity to honor the contributions and resilience of African Americans in healthcare, behavioral health, and public health, while also acknowledging the historical and ongoing inequities that affect health outcomes. In addiction and problem gambling prevention, this observance highlights the need for culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and equitable approaches to care.

African American communities may face unique risk factors related to addiction and problem gambling, including targeted marketing, economic stress, limited access to culturally relevant services, and stigma that can delay help-seeking. Prevention efforts during Black History Month emphasize early education, community-based outreach, and the normalization of conversations about mental health and behavioral addictions.

What the Research Shows

A 2021 study of rural African American adolescents found that youth who gambled showed substantial levels of gambling-related problems, with risk patterns similar to or more severe than those reported in predominantly White samples, despite limited prior research on Black youth. In the rural African American adolescent sample, earlier onset of gambling, higher frequency, and engagement in higher‑risk games (e.g., cards for money, sports betting) were associated with more severe gambling problems and other risk behaviors (substance use, delinquency). [1]

Reviews of legalized gambling’s impact on minority communities conclude that Black and other minority populations bear a disproportionate share of gambling’s social and economic costs, including debt, family conflict, and co‑occurring mental health issues. [2]

Work grounded in African‑descent communities describes gambling as a “hope‑seeking” behavior – a perceived pathway out of poverty or a way to manage chronic economic exclusion – rather than simply a leisure activity. [3]

What Can Be Done

By recognizing the role of social determinants of health, reducing stigma, and building trust through culturally informed prevention and treatment strategies, healthcare and behavioral health professionals can help support recovery, resilience, and long-term wellness—not only during Black History Month, but year-round.

Problem gambling affects individuals and families across Florida, including African American communities. While gambling harm can impact anyone, certain social, economic, and environmental factors within Florida may increase risk or create barriers to recovery.

Florida-Specific Risk Factors

• High access to gambling – Florida has widespread lottery participation, casinos, card rooms, racetracks, and expanding sports betting exposure.
• Targeted marketing – Lottery and gambling advertisements are often concentrated in predominantly Black neighborhoods.
• Economic pressure – Housing costs, wage gaps, and financial instability can increase the appeal of gambling as a perceived financial solution.
• Stress and trauma – Chronic stress, discrimination, and limited access to mental health care can make gambling a coping mechanism.

Barriers to Seeking Help in Florida

• Stigma and secrecy – Problem gambling is often hidden due to shame or fear of judgment.
• Limited awareness – Gambling disorder is less recognized than substance use disorders.
• Lack of culturally responsive care – Some individuals struggle to find providers who understand cultural context and community values.
• Mistrust of systems – Past and present inequities may discourage engagement with formal services.

Impact on Individuals and Families

• Financial hardship, debt, and housing instability
• Strained family relationships and loss of trust
• Anxiety, depression, and emotional distress
• Work, legal, or academic consequences

Florida Resources for Help and Recovery

• Florida Gambling Helpline: 888-ADMIT-IT (888-236-4848)
  • 24/7, confidential support
  • Phone, text, chat, and online options
  • Referrals to local treatment providers certified for gambling addiction
  • Community-based self-help support groups across Florida
  • Education and prevention programs for individuals, families, and communities

Problem gambling is a treatable health condition—not a moral failing. With education, culturally informed support, and access to Florida-based resources, recovery and life balance are possible. In Florida and worried about your gambling or that of a loved one? Contact the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine!

References:

[1] Reilly, Theresa R., et al. “Relations among Gambling Behavior, Associated Problems, Game Type, and Risk Factors in a Rural, African American, Adolescent Sample – Journal of Gambling Studies.” SpringerLink, Springer US, 28 July 2021, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10899-021-10060-z.

[2] Miller, Quincy. “Problem Gambling among POC: How Legalized Gaming Affects Minority Populations.” Culture.Org, 14 May 2025, culture.org/gambling/problem-gambling-poc/.

[3] Haskins, Deborah G. “African-Descent Problem Gambling: Who Say’s It’s a Problem?! Incorporating an Afrocentric Paradigm for Prevention Dr. Deborah G. Haskins for the Massachusetts Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling February 16, 2023.” Massachusetts Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, 16 Feb. 2023.