Online gambling boom fuels addiction increase in Michigan
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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Michigan was the top state in the country for online gambling by the amount of revenue generated last year.
The state generated $1.92 billion, topping New Jersey in total revenue by $115,000, according to the Associated Press.
The legalization has produced millions in state tax dollars but counselors and therapists at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Service are also seeing more people struggling with addiction.
“You put an app on a phone and it’s just for fun. I’ve known of people that will talk about, ‘In three minutes I’ve blown through $300’ because it’s just a button,” said Scott Smith a licensed counselor and therapist.
He has seen a noticeable increase in patients battling addiction since online gambling began in Michigan in 2021.
“Even driving I’ve known people that will have their phone and they’re gambling on the way home or on the way home from the office,” Smith said.
Part of the reason behind the higher numbers could because some states allow online sports betting but not other gambling games. Michigan allows both.
For those who have an addiction, Smith said he starts by trying to examine the reasons they are turning to digital platforms.
“Is it to make money? Is it because they’re bored? Is it a good dopamine release? If we can identify what the reasons are they’re using that’s a good start. Can we replace those motivators with something else that might be healthier?” Smith said.
Patients can even go to the length of banning themselves from platforms, but the process can take time and is not the same.
“Some of them you can un-restrict yourself just by starting up again. Some of the restrictions you have your Social Security number associated with it so they’re not supposed to let you, any of the platforms, log back in,” Smith said.
With more users signing up, Smith thinks online gambling addiction will only become more of an issue.
“I would be surprised if it decreases. I don’t, I’m not being prophetic, but I know that as generations are handed phones sooner, it just becomes more part of life,” Smith said.
If you believe you have an addiction, you can call the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline at 1.800.270.7117 or visit Michigan Problem Gambling webpage.
