Fantasy sports have grown in popularity in recent years, with millions of people playing across various platforms.

While it can be an enjoyable and harmless hobby for some, for others, it can quickly turn into an addiction that leads to severe financial and emotional consequences.

There has been a lot of debate over whether or not fantasy sports should be considered gambling. In short, the answer is yes, fantasy sports can be a form of gambling. The reason being is that in fantasy sports, participants place bets on the performance of individual players or teams over the course of a season or a single game. They can also enter contests where they put up an entry fee and compete against other participants for a cash prize.

Here are some reasons why fantasy sports are considered a form of gambling:

• Participants put up an entry fee and have the chance to win a cash prize. This is the same as other forms of gambling such as casino games or sports betting.
• Participants have no control over the outcome of the games or players they choose. While they may research and make informed decisions on which players to draft or which teams to bet on, ultimately, they have no control over the outcome of the game or how a player performs.
• The element of chance is present in fantasy sports. While skill and knowledge are necessary to be successful in fantasy sports, there is always an element of chance involved. Participants cannot predict with certainty how a player or team will perform, and that uncertainty is what makes it a form of gambling.

It is important to note that not all forms of gambling are problematic or addictive. However, for those who struggle with addiction, fantasy sports can be a trigger and lead to serious consequences. In fact, studies have shown that people who play fantasy sports are more likely to develop gambling problems than those who do not.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling addiction, it is important to seek help. There are resources available such as support groups, therapy, and treatment programs specifically designed to address gambling addiction. Remember, gambling addiction is a treatable condition, and recovery is possible.