Mark your calendars for March 6, 2025, for The 17th Annual Gambling Disorder Symposium at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan.
This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable insights into gambling prevention, connect with experts, and explore essential resources.
If you or someone you know has been affected by problem gambling or are a professional looking to learn more, register now and take a step toward raising awareness and supporting those in need.
Gambling addiction is a growing problem, but LAHC is here to help. Learn how our Youth Gambling Prevention Program is making a difference in Wayne County.
Why Gambling Awareness Month matters
March is Gambling Awareness Month, a time set aside to focus on the risks, realities, and consequences of gambling addiction.
For some, gambling has the potential to ruin lives and families. Problem gambling drains bank accounts, destroys marriages, and pushes people into debt they can’t escape.
Massive debt due to gambling leads to missed rent payments, lost jobs, and broken trust with family and friends.
Some gamblers lie, steal, or take out high-interest loans just to keep playing, digging themselves into a financial hole that becomes impossible to climb out of.
The emotional toll is just as severe—many experience crippling anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts when their addiction spirals out of control.
It’s not just a bad habit—it’s a life-altering problem that affects everyone around them.
The rise of sports betting and casino apps
Gambling is easier than ever in Michigan due to the increase in online sports betting and casinos developing their own apps.
With just a few taps on the phone, anyone can place a bet, making it harder for people with gambling problems to avoid temptation.
How casinos take advantage of low-income communities
Southeastern Michigan has many casinos, and while they bring in money, they often target low-income communities.
Casinos sell hope—the dream of winning big—but in reality, most people lose money.
This can lead to debt, stress, and financial struggles for families struggling to make ends meet.
Effortless online gambling
In 2021, Michigan legalized online gambling, allowing residents to gamble from home.
Betting on sports, poker, and casino games can now be done anytime, anywhere.
While the state regulates gambling, easy access increases addiction risks, especially for young people and those already struggling with self-control.
How gambling works and why it’s addictive
Gambling isn’t just about money—it’s about how your brain reacts to winning and losing.
When people gamble, their brain releases dopamine, a chemical that makes them feel excited and happy. It’s the same chemical released when you eat your favorite food, listen to music, or do something enjoyable.
But here’s the problem: gambling tricks your brain into thinking it’s a way to get rewards, even when you’re losing.
The more you gamble, the more your brain chases that rush of excitement, just like someone addicted to drugs or alcohol.
5 reasons why people get addicted to gambling
Gambling has sneaky ways of fooling your brain into thinking you’re winning—even when you’re not.
The following are the most common reasons people become addicted to gambling.
1. The “almost win” effect
Slot machines and betting games are designed to make you feel close to winning. This keeps you hooked, making you think, “If I try one more time, I’ll win.”
But in reality, every spin or bet is entirely random, and the longer you play, the more likely you are to lose all of your money.
2. Chasing losses
Many gamblers believe they can win back their lost money if they keep playing. This is called “chasing losses,” and it is one of the biggest reasons people fall into debt.
Remember, the moment you lose money is the moment you should stop gambling.
3. Quick rewards
Unlike a job where you work for weeks before getting paid, gambling offers instant results. This fast and unpredictable reward system makes it dangerously addictive.
“If I bet $400 on red, I’ll make my full salary for the week in a minute!”
4. Escaping problems
Many people gamble to escape stress, sadness, or loneliness.
Instead of facing problems, they use gambling as a distraction. But in the end, it only makes things worse.
5. The illusion of control
Some people think they have a gambling strategy, whether they pick specific numbers, play a “hot” slot machine, or wait for the “right” time to bet.
But the truth is gambling games are designed to be random and rigged against your favor. There is no real strategy to beat the system—other than avoiding gambling.
Taking action: real tips to stop gambling
Quitting gambling isn’t easy, but it is possible. Here are real, proven strategies people have used to stop gambling for good.
1. Quit altogether – no more “small bets”
You can’t just gamble “a little” and expect to control it. Even betting small amounts—like buying lottery tickets—can bring back the addiction.
The best way to stop is to stop altogether. There should be no casinos, online bets, or “friendly” poker games.
2. Replace gambling with something else
Many gamblers say they felt bored or lost when they quit. The key is to replace gambling with a new habit.
Try sports, swimming, working out, learning a new skill, playing video games, or even starting a side business.
The goal is to fill the time and energy that gambling used to take.
3. Remove access to gambling
Block gambling websites and apps from your phone and computer. Have a friend or family member take control of your gambling account so you can’t log in.
Avoid places where gambling happens, like casinos, bars, or even watching sports with people who bet.
4. Create barriers to spending money
Keep cash—avoid credit cards, debit cards, and online payment accounts.
Have someone you trust to control your finances (like a spouse, parent, or close friend).
Set a waiting rule—if you ever feel the urge to gamble, force yourself to wait 24 hours before making any decision.
5. Write a personal commitment list
Many ex-gamblers say writing a list of personal rules helped them stay strong.
Examples of rules:
- I will not step into a casino.
- I will not place bets online.
- I will not buy lottery tickets.
- I will not gamble for any reason.
Read your list every morning to remind yourself of your goal.
6. Forgive yourself and move forward
Many gamblers feel shame about their losses, but dwelling on past mistakes won’t fix them. Instead of focusing on how much money you lost, focus on rebuilding your life.
Money can consistently be earned again, but your time, health, and relationships are the most important.
7. Get support from others
Talk to a friend, family member, or therapist about your gambling problem.
Join a gambling addiction support group like Gamblers Anonymous.
If needed, call a gambling addiction helpline for help from professionals.
Take action: protect our families and youth from gambling addiction
LAHC’s Youth Gambling Prevention Program, funded by Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, serves Region 7 / Wayne County to educate and protect young people from gambling addiction.
Through Stacked Deck, a school-linked program, and bilingual community resources, we work to raise awareness and provide critical support.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact LAHC today. Call 313-846-8480 or follow us on Facebook.