GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Michigan was the highest state in the nation for on-line gambling by the quantity of income generated final yr.

The state generated $1.92 billion, topping New Jersey in whole income by $115,000, in keeping with the Associated Press.

The legalization has produced thousands and thousands in state tax {dollars} however counselors and therapists at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Service are additionally seeing extra individuals battling addiction.

“You put an app on a phone and it’s just for fun. I’ve known of people that will talk about, ‘In three minutes I’ve blown through $300’ because it’s just a button,” mentioned Scott Smith a licensed counselor and therapist.

He has seen a noticeable increase in sufferers battling addiction since on-line gambling started in Michigan in 2021.  

“Even driving I’ve known people that will have their phone and they’re gambling on the way home or on the way home from the office,” Smith mentioned.  

Part of the rationale behind the upper numbers may as a result of some states enable on-line sports activities betting however not different gambling video games. Michigan permits each.

For those that have an addiction, Smith mentioned he begins by attempting to look at the explanations they’re turning to digital platforms.

“Is it to make money? Is it because they’re bored? Is it a good dopamine release? If we can identify what the reasons are they’re using that’s a good start. Can we replace those motivators with something else that might be healthier?” Smith mentioned.

Patients may even go to the size of banning themselves from platforms, however the course of can take time and isn’t the identical.

“Some of them you can un-restrict yourself just by starting up again. Some of the restrictions you have your Social Security number associated with it so they’re not supposed to let you, any of the platforms, log back in,” Smith mentioned.

With extra customers signing up, Smith thinks on-line gambling addiction will solely change into extra of a difficulty.

“I would be surprised if it decreases. I don’t, I’m not being prophetic, but I know that as generations are handed phones sooner, it just becomes more part of life,” Smith mentioned.

If you consider you’ve an addiction, you’ll be able to name the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline at 1.800.270.7117 or go to Michigan Problem Gambling webpage.