Poker, sports betting, slot machines… Gambling arrived online two decades ago. As a consequence of its success, many people have developed an addiction. We take a closer look with Patrick Bendimerad, an addiction specialist.
Unavoidable Online Gambling Platforms
As a psychiatrist and addiction specialist, Dr. Patrick Bendimerad, head of the addiction department at the Groupe Hospitalier Littoral Atlantique (La Rochelle), sees many patients struggling with dependencies on various substances, whether tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs. “With the rise of online gambling, we’ve observed an increase in consultations for gambling-related addictions,” notes the expert. The French Observatory for Drugs and Addictive Behaviors (OFDT) estimates that, as of 2022, around 4 million users were registered on specialized gambling sites. This massive popularity has led to a surge in behavioral addictions linked to these games.
Everything hinges on our brain chemistry: to keep their customers hooked, online gambling platforms “use both traditional casino and sports betting strategies, as well as cognitive biases derived from digital neuromarketing.” These mechanisms are designed to activate what is known as “the reward system,” releasing hormones that trigger positive emotions — something gamblers chase with every new bet or game. “Players chase the thrill of their first ‘Big Win,’ which can impair judgment and lead to loss of control among the most vulnerable,” explains Patrick Bendimerad. He also highlights marketing tactics that target “very specific demographic groups.”
Online gambling advertisements primarily appeal to those under 25 and lower-income populations, two groups that gamble heavily. “This is evident in campaigns using slogans like ‘break the bank’ or ‘secure your family’s future,’ which emphasize potential winnings while downplaying losses,” Bendimerad points out. The goal? To attract as many new users as possible and keep them engaged for the long term.
Online Gambling Addiction: Warning Signs and Treatments
“Do you feel the urge to win back your losses?”; “Have you ever hidden your gambling debts from loved ones?” If someone answers yes to either of these questions, “it’s important to explore a potential gambling addiction more thoroughly,” says Patrick Bendimerad. The most significant risks include financial ruin, social isolation, and personal or professional failures.
As with any addiction, the first step must come from the individual’s own awareness. After that, institutional support takes over. Patrick Bendimerad outlines available resources: “For the general public, treatment is available through CSAPA (Addiction Care, Support, and Prevention Centers), while those under 25 can turn to Youth Counseling Services and Adolescent Support Centers.”
These specialized medical-social services provide tailored care: “Some patients seek tools to reduce addictive behaviors, while others aim for complete abstinence,” he adds. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and peer support groups (modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous) have proven effective for gambling addicts. The biggest challenge? Combating “craving,” the overpowering urge to gamble, through mental exercises and mutual support. Thanks to advocacy groups, social workers, and schools, awareness of this high-risk addiction continues to grow.
Responsible gambling is about control and awareness. If you suspect addiction, act early — prevention is easier than recovery.