Gambling in the Military

Understanding Gambling and Military Service

For many people, gambling may begin as a form of entertainment, recreation, or social activity. Whether through sports betting, casino games, lotteries, online gambling platforms, card games, or other forms of wagering, gambling is widely accessible and increasingly integrated into everyday life.

For some service members and Veterans, however, gambling can evolve from a recreational activity into a serious behavioral health concern that affects finances, relationships, careers, and overall well-being.

Research has shown that military personnel and Veterans may be at greater risk for developing gambling-related problems than the general population. Factors such as stress, frequent relocations, deployment experiences, financial pressures, risk-taking behaviors, social isolation, and co-occurring mental health challenges can increase vulnerability to gambling-related harm.

Gambling by the Numbers

Recent studies and national reports highlight the growing concern surrounding gambling within military and Veteran communities.

Service members are estimated to experience gambling problems at approximately twice the rate of the civilian population.
Some research suggests military personnel may be two to three times more likely to develop gambling-related problems than the general public.
An estimated 56,000 active-duty service members may meet the criteria for gambling disorder.
Military personnel reported frequent gambling at nearly twice the prevalence observed in the general U.S. population.
Research has found elevated rates of gambling-related harm among recently transitioned Veterans, particularly among younger Veterans and those experiencing other behavioral health challenges.

These statistics demonstrate that gambling-related harm is not simply a financial issue. It is a health, wellness, and community concern that can affect service members, Veterans, military families, caregivers, and survivors.

Why Military Personnel May Be at Higher Risk

Military service can create unique circumstances that may contribute to gambling-related problems.

High-Stress Environments

Military service often involves exposure to high-pressure situations, operational demands, deployments, and uncertainty. Some individuals may turn to gambling as a temporary distraction or coping mechanism during periods of stress.

Risk-Taking Culture

Military training frequently emphasizes calculated risk-taking, rapid decision-making, and confidence under pressure. While these traits are valuable in military operations, they may also contribute to a greater willingness to engage in gambling activities.

Deployment and Isolation

Periods of separation from family, limited recreational opportunities, loneliness, and boredom can increase the likelihood of engaging in gambling activities, particularly in overseas environments.

Transition to Civilian Life

Leaving military service often involves significant changes in identity, employment, finances, social networks, and daily structure. Some Veterans may turn to gambling as a way to cope with stress, loneliness, or uncertainty during transition.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Recognizing warning signs early can help prevent gambling-related harm from escalating.

Common warning signs include:

Gambling with money needed for bills, rent, or household expenses
Increasing the amount of money wagered to achieve the same excitement
Chasing losses by gambling more after losing money
Hiding gambling activities from family or friends
Borrowing money to gamble
Experiencing financial difficulties due to gambling
Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when unable to gamble
Spending excessive time thinking about gambling
Continuing to gamble despite negative consequences

Like other behavioral health concerns, gambling problems often develop gradually over time rather than appearing suddenly.

The Impact on Veterans and Families

Problem gambling can affect nearly every aspect of a person's life.

Potential impacts include:

Financial hardship and debt
Relationship and family conflict
Employment difficulties
Housing instability
Depression and anxiety
Increased substance use
Social isolation
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Research has found strong associations between gambling problems, post-traumatic stress, depression, substance use disorders, and suicide risk among some Veteran populations.

Recovery and Support

The good news is that recovery is possible.

Many individuals successfully address gambling-related challenges through education, peer support, counseling, treatment programs, financial planning assistance, and support from family members and trusted friends.

Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of strength and a commitment to improving one's health, finances, and future.

The Role of Peer Support

Connection can be a powerful protective factor.

Peer support programs help Veterans and service members:

Reduce isolation
Build healthy relationships
Share experiences and challenges
Learn about available resources
Develop accountability and support networks
Reconnect with community

The Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Project helps foster community connections and peer support opportunities that can reduce isolation and encourage individuals to seek assistance when needed.

Moving Forward Together

Problem gambling is often referred to as a hidden addiction because its effects are not always immediately visible. Yet its impact can be significant for service members, Veterans, military families, and communities.

By increasing awareness, recognizing warning signs, reducing stigma, and strengthening support networks, we can help ensure that those affected by gambling-related harm have access to the resources, connections, and support needed to recover and thrive.

Understanding the issue is the first step toward prevention, intervention, and recovery.