Gambling addiction has skyrocketed in Illinois. According to the Gateway Foundation, Illinois has the most gaming terminals of any state, making placing bets way too convenient, especially during the pandemic. And it’s hitting the younger generations the hardest. Six-percent of U.S. college students have a gambling disorder, and people with such an issue are two-and-a-half times more likely to commit suicide. The pandemic was also when Illinois legalized sports betting on a mobile app, so now it’s even easier to access. Community-based organizations, like Gateway, will launch a series of virtual presentation to educate the public starting at the end of this month.
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