March Madness is a season for betting, but help for problem gambling is hard to find

Npr - Mar 29th, 2025

The U.S. gambling industry has reached unprecedented levels of accessibility and profitability, with over $70 billion in revenue last year. The Supreme Court's 2018 decision to legalize sports betting outside Nevada led to 38 states adopting the practice, further fueled by online platforms. This expansion has raised concerns among mental health experts who argue that the research and treatment for gambling addiction are lagging behind industry growth. Individuals like Jen, who has accumulated over $100,000 in debt due to gambling, highlight the ease of access and the addictive nature of online betting, likening it to substance addiction.

The rapid growth of legal gambling has sparked debate over its societal impact, with critics pointing to increased mental health issues, domestic violence, and addiction rates. The gambling industry argues that legal markets are safer and contribute to state revenues, yet advocates for stricter regulations and better treatment options for gambling addiction point out the lack of federal funding and adequate prevention programs. The burgeoning industry, while profitable, faces scrutiny for its role in fostering addiction and the societal costs that accompany it.

Supreme Court Gambling Mental Health Addiction American Gaming Association Online Betting Problem Gambling Legalization

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RATING

7.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of gambling in the U.S., effectively balancing factual accuracy with engaging storytelling. It successfully highlights the expansion of legal gambling and its societal impacts, supported by credible sources and expert opinions. While the article is clear and timely, offering insights into relevant public interest issues, it could benefit from additional data and perspectives to enhance its depth and impact. Overall, it serves as an informative piece that encourages readers to consider the broader implications of gambling on society, while responsibly addressing potential controversies.

Accuracy

The article is largely accurate, presenting verifiable information about the expansion and impact of gambling in the U.S. It correctly states that gambling is more accessible post-2018 Supreme Court decision, with 38 states and D.C. legalizing it. The revenue figures, such as the $70 billion profit and the $3.1 billion expected wager on March Madness, align with industry reports. However, claims about the societal cost of problem gambling and the prevalence of gambling addiction require further verification, as they rely on estimates and evolving research.

Balance

The article presents multiple perspectives, including those of industry representatives, mental health experts, and individuals affected by gambling. It balances the industry's viewpoint on the benefits of legal gambling with concerns about addiction and insufficient treatment resources. However, it could include more voices from regulatory bodies or policymakers to provide a fuller picture of the legislative landscape and public policy efforts.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, accessible language. It logically flows from discussing the expansion of gambling to its societal impacts and treatment challenges. The use of direct quotes from experts and affected individuals enhances comprehension and engagement. Overall, the article effectively communicates complex issues in an understandable manner.

Source quality

The article cites credible sources such as the American Gaming Association and experts in gambling addiction. It includes firsthand accounts from individuals affected by gambling, adding depth to the narrative. However, it could strengthen its reliability by incorporating more peer-reviewed studies or official statistics to support claims about the prevalence and impact of gambling addiction.

Transparency

The article is transparent in its presentation of sources and acknowledges the limitations of existing data on gambling addiction. It clearly attributes statements to specific individuals and organizations. However, it could improve by providing more detailed explanations of the methodologies behind the cited studies and surveys, enhancing the reader's understanding of the data's reliability.