Daniel Meara, communications specialist with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, said gambling addiction is frequently hidden from loved ones and friends.

“Unlike a substance addiction, you’re not going to see the physical signs, the physical deterioration of an individual in the throes of a gambling addiction,” he said.

He said help is available by calling or texting 1-800-GAMBLER.

“We have a great staff here, some of them have had the experience of gambling addiction, and will refer them to resources, including gamblers anonymous meetings, counseling,” Meara said.

Del Orbe said problem gambling is rising because online sites allow bets not just on game winners, but on specific plays, as well. Bettors can wager on which team or individual will score the next touchdown or make the next basket.

“They have the live-action betting; this, of course, encourages individuals to be more involved, that’s going to increase impulse decisions, it’s going to fuel chasing your losses,” he said.

He stressed that people get emotional when they’re watching a game they have bet on, and those emotions prompt them to act impulsively.

Del Orbe said the council is neither for nor against gambling.

“We want to make sure that those gamblers who do fall within the problem gambling area, that they know where to find resources, they’re not by themselves,” he said.