Gambling addiction spikes during March Madness, according to experts

The NCAA tournament is expected to bring in $15.5 billion in bets from 68 million Americans, according to estimates. That number is five times what it was in 2022.

News 12 Staff

Mar 24, 2023, 11:31 AM

Updated 558 days ago

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Experts in addiction say that problems related to gambling can often spike during the March Madness NCAA basketball tournament.
The NCAA tournament is expected to bring in $15.5 billion in bets from 68 million Americans, according to estimates. That number is five times what it was in 2022.
Online apps have made betting as easy as pushing a button, and it's now something that can be done anywhere with your phone.
"It’s gotten to a point where its impairing their lives," says Dr. Ryan Wade, of Silver Hill Hospital. He added that the issue is "not just an amount of time spent, it's causing actual impairment, typically financially, as well as with their relationships."
Experts say it's important to set a limit, and to address the issue if you or someone you know are dealing with addiction.