Türkiye is facing a growing public health concern as online gambling addiction among young people continues to rise. Experts say the rapid shift from land-based casinos—banned nearly three decades ago—to smartphone-based gambling has significantly expanded access and intensified addiction risks, with users now able to bet anytime and anywhere.
The digital transition has effectively moved gambling from physical venues into mobile ecosystems, where 24/7 availability and targeted advertising have made it harder to control exposure and behaviour.
Smartphone Access and Pandemic Era Acceleration Drive Growth
According to Mehmet Dinç, director of the Green Crescent (Yeşilay) anti-addiction association, gambling did not disappear after casino bans but instead evolved into a more pervasive online form. He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this shift, as increased screen time created new opportunities for gambling platforms to target users—particularly younger demographics.
Dinç also highlighted that aggressive digital marketing during this period contributed to a rapid expansion in online gambling participation both locally and globally.
Gambling Now the Leading Addiction Case in Türkiye
Data from 105 Yeşilay Counseling Centers shows that by 2025, gambling addiction had become the most reported addiction type in Türkiye, surpassing substance abuse cases.
Experts warn that the lack of a physical gambling environment has made the issue less visible, leading many individuals and families to underestimate its severity until financial and psychological damage becomes significant.
One recovering gambler described how constant access via mobile apps transformed casual betting into compulsive behaviour, deeply affecting personal relationships and family life.
Youth Exposure Increasing Through Social and Digital Channels
Specialists say younger users are particularly vulnerable due to the normalisation of gambling within digital culture. Online ads, influencer content, and peer participation contribute to making betting appear routine and socially acceptable.
A young participant interviewed for the report said what began as casual group activity with friends quickly escalated into compulsive use once online platforms provided constant access.
Psychological and Financial Impact on Families
Clinical psychologist Tülin Güler from Yeşilay explained that gambling addiction extends beyond the individual, often causing financial strain, breakdown of trust, emotional withdrawal, and family conflict.
She noted that gambling activates brain reward systems in ways similar to substance addiction, leading to cravings, loss of control, and risk escalation. A common behavioural pattern is “chasing losses,” where individuals continue betting in an attempt to recover previous losses, further deepening the cycle.
Early Intervention and Treatment Efforts Expand
Experts stress that early intervention is critical. Warning signs include social withdrawal, declining responsibilities, financial difficulties, and sleep disruption.
Treatment typically combines psychotherapy, psychiatric support, and family-based interventions, often lasting around one year. Yeşilay has expanded prevention efforts significantly, reaching approximately 7 million students through school programmes, university peer training, and youth-focused initiatives. All counselling services across its 105 centres are provided free of charge and confidentially.
Regulatory Efforts Struggle to Keep Pace
Mehmet Dinç acknowledged that existing regulations are struggling to keep up with the rapid evolution of the online gambling industry. However, he welcomed a national action plan involving 13 ministries and Yeşilay, led by Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, as a potential step toward stronger coordination.
While banking restrictions on gambling transactions are already in place, Dinç called for stricter measures, including a full ban on gambling advertising. He also criticised the concept of “responsible gaming,” arguing that it shifts responsibility onto users rather than addressing industry-driven risks.
Growing Need for Digital-Focused Prevention Policies
The rise in gambling addiction in Türkiye highlights the broader challenges of regulating a rapidly evolving digital environment. With mobile access, targeted marketing, and shifting social attitudes all contributing to increased exposure, experts say traditional regulatory approaches are no longer sufficient.
As online gambling continues to expand, specialists emphasise the need for stronger prevention strategies, public awareness campaigns, and updated regulatory frameworks designed specifically for the digital age.
