March Spotlights Gambling Addiction Risks — Help Is Available for Rhode Islanders

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month 

Gambling addiction triggers the same brain chemistry as a substance disorder. Both activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine – the “feel good” chemical.

In the United States, 2.5 Million adults are estimated to meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem in a given year.

Know the signs of a gambling problem – do you think about gambling all the time – do you feel the need to bet more money and more often – do you feel restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop gambling – do you gamble despite negative consequences. These are questions to ask yourself.

A self-screen tool if your gambling may be out of control:

More on what might indicate a problem:

Consider these questions:

• Do you think about gambling constantly?

• Do you feel the need to bet more money more often?

• Do you feel restless or irritable when trying to cut down?

• Do you chase losses hoping to win back money?

• Do you hide gambling from family or friends?

• Do you gamble despite financial, emotional, or relationship harm?

Problem gambling often leads to:

• mounting debt and financial crisis

• relationship strain and family conflict

• anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption

• workplace problems or lost productivity

In severe cases, individuals may face housing instability, legal trouble, or suicidal thoughts.

Why Awareness Matters in Rhode Island

Rhode Island offers widespread legal gambling opportunities, including casino gaming, lottery products, and mobile sports betting. While these provide entertainment and state revenue, increased accessibility also raises the risk of problem gambling.

National studies consistently show that greater access and convenience increase risk, especially for:

• young adults and college students

• individuals experiencing financial stress

• people with depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders

• those with a family history of addiction

Online and mobile betting has added a new layer of risk, allowing individuals to gamble privately, instantly, and around the clock

The Science Behind Gambling Addiction

Gambling triggers the brain’s reward pathway in the same way drugs and alcohol do. The unpredictability of winning — known as a variable reward schedule — makes gambling particularly reinforcing.

Over time, individuals may:

• need to gamble larger amounts for the same excitement

• experience withdrawal-like symptoms when stopping

• become preoccupied with betting or chasing losses

• lose control despite serious consequences

This is why gambling disorder is recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Youth & Online Betting: A Growing Concern

Sports betting apps and online gaming features have made gambling more visible and normalized for younger audiences. Experts warn that early exposure to gambling behaviors — including loot boxes in video games and fantasy sports wagering — can increase vulnerability later in life.

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to:

• talk openly about gambling risks

• monitor app use and payment methods

• model responsible behavior

Problem Gambling Help in Rhode Island

If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, help is available.

The resources presented here are intended to be a starting point – this is not a complete list of information or services.