Penn State warns students over negative impacts of sports betting
College students in Pennsylvania have been signposted to support services, including financial and mental wellbeing, ahead of the Super Bowl on February 9
The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) has issued a warning to college students over gambling-related harms, including “financial strain, academic challenges, and impacts on mental health and wellbeing.”
Via a press release, the institute said it was encouraging students to recognize the impact of sports betting and to reach out for support if so required.
Penn State’s counseling and psychological services (CAPS) team was pinpointed as a potential resource, as was the National Problem Gambling Helpline.
Other on-campus services, such as student care, health promotion and wellness, and the family financial and life skills center, were also highlighted to students.
The college said: “Penn State encourages students to make informed decisions and reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling with the effects of sports betting.”
Penn State is one of the few US colleges to issue such a statement as sports betting continues to grow in the country.
Representatives from the University of Central Florida’s own CAPS team issued warnings in March 2024 for students to take heed of the risks involved in gambling.
Stony Brook University in New York essentially has an on-campus ban on gambling, with the college’s site signposting support services for students.
Stephanie Stama, assistant director for community education and outreach and psychologist at CAPS, said: “Sports betting can start as a casual activity but once someone loses money it can quickly lead to shame and fear of talking about the financial, academic, and emotional distress it causes.
“Sports betting, casino, and gambling platforms are increasingly convenient to access and marketed specifically to college students.”
Lori Strayer, CAPS alcohol and other drug counselor, added: “Gambling can be a hidden problem since there are few outward signs and people are often afraid to talk about it.
“That is why it is so important to talk to someone early on. Gambling concerns are treatable, and help is available.”
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) president Charlie Baker has been advocating for banning college prop bets to better protect student-athletes across the US.
Speaking during a Senate committee debate late last year, Baker said there was “no doubt” the rise of sports betting had impacted NCAA stars.