The lure of online gambling during the pandemic – Minnesota Public Radio News

During the pandemic, the number of people accessing online gambling platforms has surged.

Brick-and-mortar casinos were closed for a time and people stuck at home were looking for ways to escape stress and boredom.

Sports betting and other online gambling options are illegal in Minnesota, but that doesnt stop people from accessing tens of thousands of gambling websites.

Some gambling addiction counselors worry that the expansion of online platforms, the monetization of online gaming and the pressures of the pandemic are making it easier than ever for people to slide into destructive patterns.

When does placing a bet on a basketball game turn from a bit of fun into a serious problem that can wreck finances and jeopardize relationships?

At 11 a.m. Monday, host Angela Davis will talk to two guests about what they see and how to help.

We want to hear from our listeners. Have you or someone you care about been spending more time and money gambling online? What problems has this created in your life? Call 651-227-6000 or 800-242-2828 during the 11 a.m. hour or tweet @AngelaDavisMPR to join the conversation.

Guests:

Lisa Vig-Johnson is an addiction counselor specializing in gambling addiction. She runs the program Gamblers Choice based in Fargo, North Dakota.

Subscribe to the MPR News with Angela Davis podcast on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.

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The lure of online gambling during the pandemic - Minnesota Public Radio News