Don’t Let the Big Game Cause Big Problems

With legal sports betting in Pennsylvania AND a home team vying for the win, a record number of individuals living in the Commonwealth will be placing bets leading up to, and on, game day.

AMBLER, Pa., February 5, 2025 (Newswire.com)
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The amount of money being wagered annually on the Big Game increases each year, with total bets anticipated to reach record levels in 2025. The American Gaming Association estimates that Americans will legally wager more than $1.39 billion on the game this year. With legal sports betting in Pennsylvania AND a home team vying for the win, a record number of individuals living in the Commonwealth will be placing bets leading up to, and on, game day.

Most individuals who participate in gambling activities have little, or no, negative repercussions. However, for some, it can be very problematic. In Pennsylvania, it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of individuals are experiencing issues related to their gambling activity. The number of folks who are at risk of developing significant problems is even higher. An estimated 16% of calls to the Pennsylvania Statewide Helpline in 2024 were regarding issues with online sports betting, the second highest category of problematic gambling types, topped only by internet slots.

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, Inc. (CCGP) raises problem gambling awareness throughout Pennsylvania and focuses on educating the public on help that is available. Josh Ercole, CCGP Executive Director, states, “For sports fans, this time of year is very exciting, and having a Pennsylvania team in the game can make it even more thrilling. For anyone placing bets on the game, setting and sticking to safe limits is very important. If at any time that feels challenging, please consider speaking with someone.”

In Pennsylvania, confidential help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-800-GAMBLER. In addition, confidential help is available via chat or text at www.pacouncil.com.

Gambling problems can impact anyone. With help, recovery is possible.

About the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, Inc.

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania is a nonprofit organization whose focus is to raise awareness and disseminate information through educational workshops on disordered gambling, and to facilitate referrals for assistance through the use of helpline services. For more information about the Council and its services, visit www.pacouncil.com.

Source: Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA