The Rising Tide of Sports Betting Addiction in Kansas: A Closer Look at the Warning Signs and Treatment Options
The ease of placing a bet and the relentless barrage of advertisements are fueling concerns about the growing temptation to wager on sporting events. Kevin ford, the Substance-Use disorder director and Kansas Certified gambling Counselor at The Center for Counseling & Consultation in Great Bend, is sounding the alarm.“Sports-betting ads are so pervasive right now; they are everywhere,” Ford said. “If you have a mobile phone and are on the internet, placing a wager is now at your fingertips any time of the day or night. Television ads are especially enticing because celebrities and pro athletes tell you how easy it is and how much fun you’re going to have.”
As the legalization of sports betting in Kansas in 2022, the state has seen a critically important uptick in calls to gambling hotlines. in 2022, there were 263 calls, with 35 related to sports betting. by 2023, that number skyrocketed to 673 calls, with 120 tied to sports betting. “Several of these calls were made in the Center’s service area,” Ford noted, referring to Barton, Pawnee, Rice, and Stafford counties. “These numbers aren’t big yet, but they are increasing, and I predict they will continue to do so. The question I ask myself is ‘how many are not calling?’”
Ford emphasized that gamblers frequently enough recognize the need to stop but struggle with the uncontrollable urge to place a bet. “Gamblers are intellectually aware that this has to stop, but they can’t fight the uncontrollable urge to make that wager,” he explained.For those in need of help, resources like the Problem Gambling Helpline (800-522-4700) are available. “I encourage gamblers to consider making that call,” Ford said. “The KDADS gambling team is available,and they suggest that people ‘know when enough is enough.’”
Treatment Options for Gambling Addiction
treatment for gambling addiction frequently enough involves talk therapy, which is provided at no cost to individuals thanks to revenues from casinos and the lottery. “During treatment, counselors and clients look at that feeling of being powerless,” Ford commented. “In many cases, financial counseling is also appropriate as people ask for help when they get into serious money trouble. In addition, spouses sometiems don’t know what has been going on, which leads to anger and frustration.”
Ford also highlighted the similarities between gambling addiction and substance-use disorders. “Problem betting is akin to an alcoholic taking a drink,” he explained.“If you don’t have easy access to Gamblers Anonymous, please seriously consider finding open meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous and/or Narcotics Anonymous. Gamblers can learn about their addiction at these open meetings.This could be an important ingredient in their recovery.”
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
ford shared key warning signs of problem gambling, as outlined by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS):
| warning Signs |
|——————————————–|
| A preoccupation with gambling |
| Talking only about wins, not losses |
| Using sports betting to escape problems |
| hiding losses from family members |
| Borrowing money to place bets |
| withdrawing from loved ones or constantly checking on bets |
| Inability to stop or cut back |
Seeking Help
For those in need of support, The Center for Counseling & Consultation offers a range of services, including individual and group therapy, marriage and family counseling, and community-based support. The center’s confidential 24/7 crisis hotline is available at 800-875-2544.As sports betting continues to grow in popularity, Ford’s message is clear: awareness and early intervention are critical. “The numbers are increasing,” he warned.“it’s time to take action before the problem escalates further.”
