Saturday morning at 9 a.m., sports bettors in New York were able to place a wager from the comfort of their phones.
The state officially opened mobile sports betting, approving four licensed mobile operators — Bet Rivers, Caesars Sportsbooks, DraftKings and Fan Duel.
What You Need To Know
- Mobile sports betting opened up on Saturday at 9 a.m.
- The Northeast Gambling Problem Resource Center offers resources for all forms of gambling problems
- The hotline number for the resource center is 518-801-1491
While this makes sports betting easier, Northeast Problem Gambling Resource Center team leader Brandy Richards says to be careful before you place that first bet.
“One of the things that’s key is just setting your limits on time and the amount of money that you wager,” Richards said. “Because when people aren’t able to do that, that’s when it can turn into a problem for folks. Anytime you increase availability for something you’re increasing the likelihood of problems developing.”
According to the resource center, about eight million Americans have some form of a gambling problem.
In New York State alone, the center says 4% of the population has a gambling disorder.
Richards says it’s important to know the signs of a gambling problem and when to reach out for help.
“We define problem gambling as anytime gambling is causing a problem in your life,” Richards said. “Whether it’s personally, financially [or] relationships, [or] if it’s interfering with school or work. So I think those are some of the ways we really want to be able to let people know it can really sneak up.”
The Northeast Gambling Problem Resource Center is one of seven agencies helping to combat gambling issues.
Their website provides resources to help those affected by gambling, along with a hotline where people can call to be connected to immediate help.
“It’s a simple as making that call,” Richards said. “And we will meet you where you’re at. We will provide you with an array of treatment options and services that are available. We want to connect folks who are ready for help.”
Richards says there is no shame in asking for help, especially when it comes to a gambling problem.
“There’s a lot of shame and stigma that goes along with any kind addiction,” Richards said. “And I think gambling addiction is even more so because even though they aren’t injecting any kind of chemical into their bodies, but it’s still having the same kind of dopamine rush that other addictions have. So I think for us, it’s just about letting people know there’s option out there, there’s things to look for.”
Richards advises everyone who is interested in mobile betting to set limits, as well as having someone to hold you accountable. And when you think you’re gambling has gone too far, to reach out for help.
All resources as well as the helpline number for the Northeast Gambling Problem Resource Center can be found here.
