Association House's Fight Against Gambling Addiction in Chicago

With resources from our partners at Are You Really Winning, Ayanna works to have gambling addiction taken seriously.

Picking up a gambling habit has never been easier. Half of men aged 18–49 now have active accounts on sports betting apps. In Illinois, recent changes to gambling laws have opened the floodgates— and Chicago is cashing in. Wrigley Field just opened a $9 million sports betting bar, and the city is moving forward with Bally’s, a new casino expected to bring in $1 billion a year.

But as gambling gets easier to access, addiction is becoming more common. Around 2.5 million adults already struggle with a gambling problem—and that number is rising.

Betting often feels like harmless fun, especially when it’s tied to sports. But the consequences of addiction can be life-altering.

Ayanna Smith, Gambling Outreach Coordinator at Association House, is working to raise awareness in Chicago. She educates people about the warning signs of addiction, offers free screenings, and connects individuals with recovery resources.

“Gambling is an addiction just like any other,” says Ayanna. “If it’s harming your relationships, your job, or your peace of mind—it’s time to seek help.”

Ayanna says many people don’t realize just how widespread gambling has become. The stereotype of the casino regular betting it all on cards doesn’t match today’s reality. Now, anyone with a phone is a target—including kids.

Ayanna gives us the lowdown on how to protect kids and teens from early risks.

“Kids are always on their phones—and betting apps are on there too,” she explains. "They don't necessarily have to ask parents' permission-- they can get a friend or an older sibling to log into the app for them. You might think it's just a game for a kid, but actually, you're setting them up for a gambling addiction."

Betting apps know exactly what they’re doing. Many offer free credits to hook new users, knowing the thrill of early wins keeps people coming back.

"The draw is quick money, and it's a powerful temptation. The initial thrill of spending one dollar and getting one hundred dollars," Ayanna told us. "But in the long run, if the financial stress leads to lying, stealing, marital distress, trouble at work-- are you really winning?"

Ayanna emphasizes that parents play a critical role in prevention. Teens often don’t understand the consequences of a major financial loss, especially if they’re under someone else’s roof. She recommends watching for unusual app transactions—small, frequent charges on Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App can be signs of online betting. And when giving teens spending money, use it as a chance to talk about financial responsibility.

For adults, Ayanna says the biggest step is recognizing gambling as a legitimate addiction—one that needs support and treatment. She’s found that while many adults don’t want to admit they have a problem, family members are often relieved to know there’s help available.

“Older folks don’t always see it as a problem,” she says. “They might think, ‘I’m retired, I go to the casino once a week with friends, I know my limit.’ But seniors can be isolated, and loneliness can make winning feel like a high—and soon, that one day a week becomes something more serious.”

The bottom line? Gambling addiction is real, and it’s affecting more people than ever. With awareness, open conversations, and access to support, recovery is possible. Thanks to the outreach team Ayanna's leading at the House, we're on the right track.

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If you or someone you care about is constantly checking odds, hiding their losses, or brushing off concerns, it might be more than a hobby. Learn more about how to find help at associationhouse.org/gambling.