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March Madness, the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the Super Bowl—these iconic sporting events have one thing in common beyond the thrill of competition: the ability for Americans to legally bet on virtually every aspect of the game.
Since the 2018 Murphy v. NCAA decision allowed states to legalize sports betting, 38 states have embraced the practice, with more expected to follow. With sports gambling now more accessible than ever—through smartphones, sports bars, and kiosks—concerns about its impact on society are growing.
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry by Professor Joshua Grubbs of the University of New Mexico’s Center on Alcohol, Substance Use, and Addictions (CASAA) highlights a troubling trend: sports gambling and binge drinking appear to be closely linked. The two-year study followed 4,000 Americans, tracking their gambling habits and alcohol consumption patterns. The findings suggest that those who engage in sports gambling more frequently are also at greater risk of experiencing alcohol-related problems.
The Connection Between Sports Gambling and Drinking
“We found that these behaviors move very closely together over time,” said Grubbs. “People who engage in sports gambling more frequently tend to experience more heavy drinking episodes and more alcohol-related problems.”
The study revealed that problem drinking increased alongside frequent sports gambling, leading to relationship issues, work-related problems, and other negative consequences. While researchers stop short of claiming that sports gambling directly causes excessive drinking, the strong correlation suggests that reducing one behavior might help mitigate the other.
According to Grubbs, the link between gambling and drinking may stem from the culture surrounding sports fandom. Watching games at bars, tailgating, and home viewing parties often involve alcohol consumption, making it easy for the two behaviors to reinforce each other.
A High-Risk Population
The study also identified the demographics most susceptible to these behaviors. Younger men in their 20s and 30s, particularly those with disposable income, are most likely to engage in both sports gambling and binge drinking. Furthermore, individuals with higher education levels—often considered a protective factor in other contexts—appear to be at greater risk for problem gambling in this scenario.
Grubbs expressed concern that this high-risk group is also more prone to other impulsive behaviors, including risky financial activities like cryptocurrency trading and other forms of substance use.
A Growing Public Health Concern
One of the study’s most alarming findings is that sports gamblers exhibit more symptoms of gambling disorder compared to those who engage in other types of gambling, such as playing the lottery or visiting casinos. The ease of access to sports betting, especially through mobile devices, removes traditional barriers that might otherwise help limit gambling behaviors.
“There’s a real concern that as sports gambling becomes more widespread, we may see an increase in alcohol-related problems as well,” said Grubbs. “The accessibility of sports gambling has removed many of the safeguards that existed in traditional gambling settings.”
Despite the rapid expansion of sports betting, there is little federal oversight or systematic research into its long-term effects. Grubbs is calling for more attention from lawmakers to fund research and establish regulations to protect consumers.
Advice for Gamblers and Drinkers
For those who engage in both sports gambling and drinking, Grubbs recommends setting firm limits and being mindful of impulsive behaviors. He encourages bettors to reflect on their drinking habits while gambling, asking themselves whether their alcohol consumption is influencing their gambling decisions.
“If I can get someone to drink a little less while they’re gambling, that’s a win,” he said. “Even small changes can help prevent bigger problems down the line.”
As sports gambling continues to grow in popularity, understanding its relationship with binge drinking will be crucial for public health efforts.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction or alcohol misuse, seek help from a qualified professional or support organization.
