Experts in
addiction say that problems related to gambling can often spike during the
March Madness NCAA basketball tournament.

The NCAA tournament is expected to bring in $15.5
billion in bets from 68 million Americans, according to estimates. That number
is five times what it was in 2022.

Online apps have made betting as easy as pushing a
button, and it’s now something that can be done anywhere with your phone.

“It’s
gotten to a point where its impairing their lives,” says Dr. Ryan Wade, of Silver Hill
Hospital. He added that the issue is “not just an amount of time spent,
it’s causing actual impairment, typically financially, as well as with their
relationships.”

Experts say it’s important to set a limit, and to
address the issue if you or someone you know are dealing with addiction.