Experts: Sports betting up, but so is problem gambling
The University of Cincinnati and UC Health Lindner Center of HOPE's Chris Tuell spoke with WLWT about the risk and apparent rise in sports gambling addiction.
Healthy sports betting is possible, but Tuell said the risk for addiction is high and appears to be rising.
“Sports betting can become highly addictive due to the thrill of winning and the urge to chase losses, leading to compulsive gambling behaviors,” said Tuell, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience in the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and clinical director of addiction services at UC Health's Lindner Center of HOPE.
Emotional distress, relationship strain and financial loss are all high risks for problem gamblers. He said if these become problems, a person should seek professional help.
“Many bettors underestimate the odds and overextend themselves financially, resulting in significant debt, bankruptcy or long-term financial harm," Tuell said.
Resources are available for problem gamblers through the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling, Gambling Help Ohio and at the National Problem Gambling Helpline.
Featured photo at top of people sitting at a sportsbook. Photo/Amit Lahav/Unsplash.
Latest UC News
- UC-backed startups receive funding from $1.4 million state grantTwo startups based on UC technology and supported by the UC Tech Transfer team and the 1819 Venture Lab were awarded $200,000 each from Ohio’s Technology Validation and Startup Fund.
- Esports trends in 2025: Gaming predictions for the year aheadThe Esports industry is expected to grow and evolve in 2025, so we asked experts at the University of Cincinnati for their predictions on gaming trends and video games on the rise.
- Extreme cold usually deadlier than extreme heat, data showsAt least five deaths across three different counties in Ohio already this year are being investigated as hypothermia-related. Data from the Hamilton County Coroner's Office shows that in Cincinnati, cold is deadlier than heat.
- Co-op vs. internship explained: What you need to knowWhat are the benefits of co-op vs an internship? Both offer hands-on work experience for students, but they differ in format, focus and duration. Learn more about which one is for you.
- ‘I’m on the right path’With hard work, a focus on paying it forward and the support of mentors along the way, University of Cincinnati fourth-year pharmacy student Daisy Asabere’s path has set her up for a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry.
- UC engineer applies Covid lessons to cancerA chemical engineering professor at the University of Cincinnati is developing new ways to deliver treatments for infectious diseases and cancer using the technology found in COVID-19 vaccines.
