The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey highlighted alarming trends in problem gambling during a recent meeting of the Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts. With gambling opportunities proliferating across the state, the council reported a staggering 277% increase in calls to their 800 Gambler helpline since the legalization of sports betting in 2018. This surge reflects a growing crisis, particularly among younger demographics, with the majority of calls now coming from individuals under 34.

The council, which has been advocating for disordered gamblers for over 40 years, emphasized the urgent need for public awareness and education on the risks associated with gambling. They noted that approximately 6% of New Jersey's adult population struggles with gambling problems, significantly higher than the national average of 1-3%. Alarmingly, surveys indicate that 10-15% of American youth have faced gambling-related issues, with many starting as young as 10 years old.

The meeting underscored the social costs of gambling, as the council shared harrowing stories of individuals whose lives have been devastated by addiction. One case involved a first responder whose online sports betting spiraled out of control, leading to family separation and financial ruin. The council also pointed out that gambling addiction is often referred to as a "hidden addiction," lacking the visible signs associated with substance abuse, making it harder for individuals to seek help.

Despite the significant revenue generated from gambling—over $5.8 billion in 2023 alone—the council lamented the lack of funding for treatment services, noting that their budget for treatment has been exceeded by over 30%. They called for increased support and resources to address this growing public health issue, emphasizing that the consequences of gambling addiction extend beyond the individual, impacting families and communities alike.