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Easy access to online gambling through smartphones and computers has triggered a sharp rise in gambling addiction in Türkiye, with cases now appearing among children as young as 12, according to a senior psychiatrist at Akdeniz University.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Erdogan, head of the Department of Mental Health and Diseases at Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine, warned that digital platforms have transformed gambling into an always-available activity.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan said online gambling now spreads at a pace that demands an urgent public response.
“Access to gambling has become extremely easy with digitalization. People can now gamble through their phones and computers in their hands. This causes addiction to spread at a frantic rate,” Erdogan said. “We now face a serious pandemic that requires strong preventive measures.”
He explained that gambling addiction links directly to the brain’s reward system. Dopamine release reinforces the behavior and builds dependency over time.
Many individuals begin with casual play and the belief that they play for pleasure. This process can lead to full addiction if exposure continues.
Erdogan stressed that online gambling differs from traditional gambling due to accessibility and normalization.
Digital platforms present gambling as a routine daily activity. Payment systems allow play at home, at school, or at work. This visibility makes gambling appear socially acceptable.
“The difference with online gambling is that it sits in our hands like messaging a friend. These games have normalized gambling,” Erdogan said. “Unfortunately, online gambling addiction has dropped to ages 12 and 13. Control in the digital world can be difficult.”
He called on families to monitor children without creating fear or pressure. He said parents should stay aware of online behavior and take preventive steps early.
Erdogan listed key warning signs of gambling addiction:
He highlighted the “recovery trap,” where individuals chase losses by gambling again. “I lost this much money; I will get it back and quit,” he said.
This mindset locks individuals into a destructive cycle.
Akdeniz University operates a Behavioral Addictions Clinic that treats gambling, internet, and shopping addiction.
Erdogan said patients can book appointments online and receive structured care.
“Patients first undergo assessment and evaluation,” he said. “Then we apply medication and psychotherapy together to help them stop gambling behavior. Our treatment success in gambling addiction is quite high. People should not hesitate to seek treatment.”
The remarks come as Türkiye faces growing concern over digital addiction risks, especially among younger users, as online gambling platforms expand across mobile and computer devices.
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