University of Maryland Research Highlights Surge in Gambling Disorders

Researchers at the University of Maryland have raised alarms regarding a notable increase in gambling-related harm, particularly gambling disorders, among the population. The findings, published by the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, indicate that the legalization of online sports gambling in March 2022 has led to a rise in affected individuals, with the prevalence of gambling disorders now at 5.7%, up from 4% prior to legalization.

Research Findings and Implications

The study involved a sample size of 3,600 respondents, who were surveyed about their gambling habits. According to Dr. Christopher Welsh, medical director at the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling and a professor of psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, gambling addiction ranks alongside other serious addictive behaviors, such as substance and alcohol abuse.

Dr. Welsh emphasized the severity of gambling addiction, stating, “It’s very similar to other addictions… you can have withdrawal from gambling the same way you can from alcohol.” He highlighted that individuals suffering from gambling addiction often overlook the negative impacts, such as financial loss, and may even resort to harmful behaviors to continue gambling. “People who go to great lengths to gamble and feel compulsive about the activity could end up hurting family members and friends,” he explained.

Comparative Risks and Broader Context

The research also pointed out that gambling addiction can pose even greater dangers than other forms of addiction. Dr. Welsh noted the alarming rates of suicide among those with gambling disorders, stating that “suicide rates, both attempted and actually completed, are highest in people with gambling addiction and higher than other types of addiction.”

This issue is not confined to Maryland. Experts in West Virginia have expressed similar concerns, noting rising addiction rates among youth and student-athletes following the legalization of sports betting and iGaming. However, some argue that the increase in diagnosed cases may be due to improved identification and regulation of gambling disorders, rather than an actual rise in addiction rates.

As the conversation around gambling continues, the implications of these findings are significant. The increase in gambling disorders highlights the need for effective support systems and resources for those affected, as well as ongoing research to better understand the complexities of gambling addiction in the wake of changing legislation.