The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reminding Iowans of the many resources available to individuals struggling with problem gambling. The American Gaming Association (AGA) estimates 23.2 million adults bet over $4.3 billion on Sunday’s Super Bowl LV and believe it was the largest single-game sports betting event in American sports history. Data shows more gamblers are shifting toward mobile sports betting with nearly a third of the wagers placed online. As gambling become more accessible, state health officials caution gambling addiction can occur to anyone, regardless of background or experience. Signs that someone may have a gambling problem include: a preoccupation with gambling such as reliving past experience or planning for their next wager, hiding gambling habits, becoming defensive when confronted and betting increasing amounts over time. If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, the IDPH encourages you to log on to yourlifeiowa.org/gambling for more information. Help is also available 24/7 through online live chats, by calling 1-800-BETS OFF or texting 855-895-8398. Links to these resources are included below.
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https://yourlifeiowa.org/gambling
