Millions of Floridians Have Staked Far More Than Pride on Super Bowl LIX

As Super Bowl LIX approaches, millions of Floridians are gearing up for the biggest sporting event of the year. While for many, the day is about football, food, and fun, for others, it can trigger or exacerbate gambling problems. With the American Gaming Association projecting a record $1.39 billion in legal wagers for this year’s game, it’s crucial to shed light on problem gambling and the resources available for those who need help. [1]

Understanding Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is a serious issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It’s characterized by:

• Difficulty controlling gambling behavior
• Preoccupation with gambling and obtaining money to gamble
• Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences
• Lying to conceal gambling activity
• Jeopardizing relationships or career opportunities due to gambling

During events like the Super Bowl, these behaviors can intensify, leading to significant financial and emotional distress. Keep in mind that the widespread availability of sports betting means this year’s game – like today’s other sporting events – will be filled to the brim with betting advertisements and sponsorships, which can be triggers for those suffering from or at risk for problem gambling.

The Problem Gambling Impacts of Online Sports Betting Legalization: What 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine Data Reveals

The expansion of online sports betting to 38 states has made gambling more accessible than ever. [1] While this has created new entertainment options for many, it has also increased the potential for problem gambling. The ease of placing bets from a smartphone, combined with the myriad of betting options available during the Super Bowl, can be particularly challenging for those struggling with gambling addiction.

WATCH: WKMG 6 Takes a look inside Florida’s only problem gambling help center: 888-ADMIT-IT.

Looking at 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine data is insightful in learning how the legalization of sports betting is impacting some Floridians:

Increases in Problem Gambling HelpLine Contacts

• There has been a 395% Increase in TOTAL Agency Contacts to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine since 2018.
  
  
• There has been a 105% Increase in FLORIDA “HELP ONLY” Contacts to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine since 2018.
  
  
• There was a 130% increase in Florida Help Seekers citing “Online/Mobile Gambling” as the primary gambling problem of the gambler during the 2024 calendar year, immediately following the legalization of sports betting in the Sunshine State.

Demographics of Online Sports Bettors Experiencing Problems

• Amongst those engaged only in online sports wagering, the vast majority were male (97%), White (48%), and 30 years of age or younger (66%). The average reported income of online sports betters during the 2024 calendar year was $108,853, considerably more than the prior year ($62,479 in 2023).
  
  
• Online sports bettors continue to be predominantly younger than gamblers of other types, with the largest share, both pre (30%) AND post-legalization (43%), falling in the 25 and under age range.
  
  
• Data with respect to the reported age of initiation of gambling and when it first became a problem revealed that 82% of online sports bettors this year (and more than twice as many as prior to sports betting legalization in the state) started gambling before age 26.  Further, during the most recent 2024 calendar year, more than half (51%) of sports bettors started gambling at or before the age of 20.

Financial Issues Intensify Following Sports Betting Legalization

• Financial-related issues were the most frequently cited reasons for initially contacting the HelpLine by half (50%) of online sports bettors in the 2024 calendar year, post-sports betting legalization in Florida.
  
  
• Of additional note, we are seeing more sports bettors now seeking help for gambling due to financial-related reasons (50%) than prior to its legalization (39%) in 2023.
  
  
• Almost three-quarters (72%) of sports bettors cited difficulty paying household bills due to gambling; ninety percent (90%) reported gambling away savings, equity, or retirement funds, and almost half (43%) said they had sold or pawned assets as a means to obtain money with which to gamble. 
  
  
• Finally, one-third (33%) of online sports bettors reported their housing status as either “homeless” or “staying with a friend or family member” as a result of their financial situation due to gambling (post-legalization).

Mental Health, Domestic, and School/Work Issues of Online Sports Bettors

• Suicidal ideations or attempts are being reported more frequently by sports bettors contacting the HelpLine “post” legalization (25%) in 2024, compared to what was seen during the previous “pre” legalization period of time (20%) in 2023. 
  
  
• Higher incidences of family neglect (49%) has been reported to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine by sports bettors throughout the 2024 calendar year (post-legalization) compared with that reported during the previous 2023 calendar year (43%).
  
  
• Of significant note is the increase in problems reported at school or work by online sports bettors, post-legalization (55% and 46%, respectively).

888-ADMIT-IT: A Lifeline for Those in Need

For Florida residents facing gambling-related issues, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine offers crucial support. This service provides:

• 24/7 Availability: Help is always just a phone call or text away, any time of day or night.
• Confidentiality: All conversations are private and protected.
• Multilingual Support: Assistance is available in multiple languages to serve Florida’s diverse population.
• Comprehensive Resources: From peer support to professional counseling referrals, the HelpLine connects callers with a wide range of services.

Additional Support Through gamblinghelp.org

The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling’s website, gamblinghelp.org, offers:

• Free self-assessment tools for:
  • Gamblers
  • Loved Ones
  • Youth/Parents
  • College Students
  • Seniors

• Education about problem gambling
• Information about the resources available through 888-ADMIT-IT for problem gambling help seekers
• Information about the resources available for professionals serving impacted populations
• And much more!

Recognizing the Signs

During Super Bowl parties or gatherings, be aware of potential signs of problem gambling:

• Intense focus on betting rather than the game itself
• Extreme mood swings based on gambling outcomes
• Attempts to borrow money for gambling
• Secretive behavior around phone use or finances

To learn more about the signs of a gambling problem, go here.

WATCH: FOX 35 Interviews FCCG About Sports Betting and Problem Gambling Ahead of Super Bowl LIX

Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength

It’s important to remember that seeking help for gambling problems is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step towards recovery. Whether you’re concerned about your own gambling habits or those of a loved one, resources are available before, during, and after the big game.

The 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine provides support, guidance, and hope for those affected by problem gambling. As we approach Super Bowl LIX, let’s remember that while the game is important, nothing is more valuable than the well-being of individuals and families.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling problems, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is available, and recovery is possible. Call or text the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today.

[1] “Americans to Wager Estimated $1.39 Billion on Super Bowl LIX.” American Gaming Association, 4 Feb. 2025, www.americangaming.org/new/americans-to-wager-estimated-1-39-billion-on-super-bowl-lix/.

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