A new study from the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling shows that gambling-related problems have increased sharply since the state legalized sports betting in 2022. Researchers found that nearly two in five Marylanders who place sports bets now show signs of disordered or risky gambling behavior.
Experts say the rise is linked to the easy access of mobile betting apps, which allow users to wager anytime and anywhere, often leading to addiction much faster than traditional forms of gambling.
The 2024 Gambling Prevalence Survey, released by the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, found that nearly 9 out of 10 adults in the state have gambled at least once in their lives, with more people than ever betting online.
The study found that 5.7% of adults now meet the criteria for problem gambling, up from 4% in 2022. That means thousands more Marylanders are showing signs of addiction or risky behavior linked to betting. Men were more than twice as likely as women to report gambling problems at 8.9% compared to 3.3%.
The report also found large differences across communities. Over half of those identified with disordered gambling were visible minorities, with a 10.4% rate compared to 3.6% among White adults.
When looking at age groups, gambling issues were most common among adults aged 56 to 64 (7.7%), followed by young adults 18 to 24 (6.9%) and 25 to 34 (6.3%). About 17% of Maryland adults said they placed a sports bet in the past year, and nearly 15% of sports bettors met the criteria for disordered gambling. Among those who gamble online, about 1 in 7 said they do so daily.
Despite rising rates of problem gambling, only 13% of those affected have ever sought help, although awareness of support resources is improving. Roughly half of Maryland adults said they know about the state’s toll-free gambling helpline, and about two-thirds have seen public messages about responsible gambling.
The findings come as mobile betting continues to expand and state officials increase prevention efforts, including new education programs in public schools and broader outreach to at-risk communities.
With so few Marylanders seeking help for gambling problems, critics are calling upon the state to expand awareness, education, and support options to prevent addiction before it starts.
One reason for the low rate of help-seeking may be stigma. Many people are reluctant to admit they have a gambling problem or fear being judged by friends, family, or employers. Others may not realize that gambling addiction is a treatable behavioral health issue, similar to substance use disorders.
To close that gap, Maryland could take several steps:
Maryland already operates a 24-hour helpline and offers free, confidential counseling through the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling. But some argue that awareness, not just availability, is key. By combining prevention, education, and direct outreach, the state may help ensure that more Marylanders recognize the signs of gambling harm and feel comfortable asking for help before the problem grows.
