FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (WJAR) — As the New England Patriots prepare to face the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60, many fans are getting ready to place their bets.

While the surge in gambling is expected to boost the local economy, experts warn it also presents a significant challenge for those fighting sports betting addiction.

Sports gambling has already become a major revenue driver, but with a local team in the championship, fans said they have an extra reason to be invested.

Patrick Kelly, an accountancy professor at Providence College who studies sports gambling trends, said the influx of bets should benefit the state through tax funding, but it could come with a social price.

"Sports betting is the silent addiction," Kelly said. "It's on your phone. You could have somebody in your family with a sports betting problem, and you may not know."

Kelly said the age group most susceptible to a spending spiral is young men between the ages of 18 and 35.

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While he noted the issue is prevalent in Rhode Island, Kelly said he is not necessarily against sports gambling as a whole, provided it is done in moderation.

"Bet on the outcome of the game," Kelly advised. "You don't need to make 15 bets about what's going to happen in the first quarter."

Anyone seeking problem gambling help can call 1-800-327-5050 or visit The MA Problem Gambling Helpline to speak with a trained Specialist to get support.