Raleigh, North Carolina (WNCN) — With the official opening of sports betting in North Carolina on March 11, the North Carolina Problem Gambling Program is ready for a possible surge in the number of people developing a sports betting addiction.
Program administrators told CBS 17 that they are working with UNC-Chapel Hill to develop a therapy and preventive program for children and young people. If sports betting is negatively impacting a client’s money, counselors can help them get in touch with financial professionals.
To let people know about the helpline in case they need assistance, you’ll also see advertisements in stadiums and other sporting events.
The state’s sports betting legislation provides an additional $2 billion annually to the program to extend its preventive programs. According to Youth Prevention Coordinator Alison Wood, funding will support the expansion of these preventative initiatives for many years to come.
“We’ve already begun implementing in small ways so that we can expand on that as funding becomes available,” Wood stated.
Experts advise keeping an eye on the amount of money you’re wagering if you’re new to sports betting. You’re keeping yourself responsible in this way, and you could be less prone to develop an addiction.
Wood advised keeping an eye on their spending and being aware of their betting. You will be connected to a clinician within 24 hours after calling the 877-718-5543 problem gambling helpline.
