But, 'there's no substance in gambling, so people misunderstand it as a moral or an issue of weak will.' ' is a hidden addiction - there are not as many outward signs,' Keith Whyte, executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, tells CNBC Make It.Īmericans often recognize substance abuse because of the physical, visible effects substances can have on someone's body, Whyte says.

While placing friendly or even serious wagers on sports can be a fun way to get involved in the game, routine gambling can quickly become a problem, even before the person making bets realizes it.