GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) — Super Bowl LVII is fast approaching. While the game is enjoyable for many, that might not be the case for those struggling with a gambling addiction.
In 2022, there was close to $8 billion spent on the Super Bowl across sports betting sites. Rose Blozinski, Executive Director for the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling, says they see a lot of calls in February. She believes this is due to the Super Bowl.
“If they’ve been losing all season, this is kind of the make it or break it,” said Blozinski. “It’s like ‘I have to win today or I’m going to lose all this money.’ It’s kind of their last chance to recover their losses from a long football season.”
Blozinski says if you struggle with a gambling addition, watching the game with a friend or in a social setting can help you focus more on being social, and less on gambling.
If you need help with a gambling addiction, the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling is able to help. You can call 1-800-426-2535, chat with someone online, or text 850-888-4673. The National Problem Gambling Helpline (available for call or text) is 1-800-522-4700. These services are available 24/7