CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - Nearly a quarter of Missouri college students are involved in sports betting since the state legalized it on December 1, raising concerns among mental health experts about addiction risks.

The addiction advocacy group Partners in Prevention reports 23% of college students in Missouri participate in sports betting. Mental health professionals say easy mobile access creates serious risks for young adults.

“I think what really drew me away from wanting to sports bet is just because I know how addictive it can get,” said Kendal Lewis, a Southeast Missouri State University student who avoids betting despite its campus popularity.

Nationwide, 75% of college students report participating in sports betting.

Dr. Andrew Siebert, Southeast Missouri State University’s

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