It's the first Super Bowl weekend where Floridians can legally bet on sports since the state changed its gambling laws.
According to the American Gaming Association, 68 million adult Americans will be bet on Sunday's game.
The trade group projects 35% more gamblers this year than last year, with a record 23.1 billion dollars worth of bets.
While fans are fired up for one of the biggest sports days of the year, mental health experts say gambling can stimulate the brain's reward system in a similar way that substances can.
“Any stimulant addiction increases reward; creates excitement. It's really about increasing the celebration that you feel. So, holiday events like the Super Bowl, everybody wants to celebrate and feel good, and have a good time. A lot of people look to gambling as a way to enhance their stimulating experiences on that day,” Jon Jasper, mental health counselor, explained.
He said it's crucial you support people who may struggle with addictions.
“It's really important to normalize people turning down alcohol or gambling and just supporting them when they say, you know, no, thanks. I'm good. You don't have to press the issue or make them uncomfortable. They deserve to enjoy celebratory, awesome days like the Super Bowl, just like the rest of us,” Jasper added.
Turning Point of Tampa, which offers addiction treatment, is located in Tampa.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you can speak to someone today at 1-800-662-4357 or visit the link below.
SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Here are a few more local resources:
