Whether you need help, or you know someone who needs help, there is no shame in seeking it out. Gambling has the power to impact you in drastic ways, presenting significant challenges in daily life. However, there are many practical ways to address gambling problems by recognizing the signs of addiction and having access to treatment support resources.
On this page:
Why is Youth Gambling an Issue?
You and your friends may not spend the weekend at the casino, but gambling can take many forms that differ from the classic images we associate with it.
“BEYOND BETTING” AUDIO SERIES
- Learn about the impacts of “Player Packs” (in which you purchase the playing cards of real athletes to become playable members of your virtual sports team) in popular video games like Madden, Fifa and NBA 2K in encouraging youth gambling
Like Gambling, Player Packs are…
- Random
- Include an element of risk
- Use real money or in-game currency
- Reducible in harm with the right strategies and expert advice
Listen to the full podcast episode here
Awareness and Risk Factors (camh.ca)
Young people between the ages of 10 and 24 exhibit higher rates of problem gambling than adults. They are more likely to gamble for entertainment, to escape negative emotions or to counter boredom and loneliness, rather than for financial gain.
If you gamble on dares or private bets, in sports pools or during card games with friends, you could be at risk of developing a problem.
- Who is most at risk?
- While no person is immune to the effects of gambling, you may be at a higher risk of developing a gambling problem if you identify with any of the following categories.
Gambling and Gaming
It’s perfectly fine to enjoy gaming, but gaming can open you up to the world of gambling.
This means that learning about the connections between gambling and gaming, discovering the signs to look out for where gambling problems may arise and exploring tips and tricks to limit your exposure to gambling problems when gaming is still important
Get Help
The Centre for Addiction & Mental Health
- Problem Gambling and Technology Use Treatment Services offers support for people whose gambling or technology use is problematic by leading to difficulties in other parts of their lives.
CYMHA (Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions) works to strengthen Ontario’s mental health and addictions services for young people and their families. Their approach starts with mobilizing knowledge on, then improving the quality of supports.
- Browse the CYMHA Resource Hub to access supports specific to your needs
The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) is the United Kingdom’s leading charity dedicated to preventing the negative effects of gaming and gambling among young people. They offer award-winning education and empowerment strategies that are universally applicable.
- Harm reduction education and supplies
- Supervised use space with nursing staff present
- Counselling
- Referrals to housing, employment, and mental health and addiction services
The International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University is a leader in research aimed at identifying and understanding the factors related to youth gambling issues and provides treatment, offering award-winning prevention programs.
Kids Help Phone is an e-mental health service available 24/7 across Canada available for kids, teens and young adults. Through KHP, you can talk to a counsellor, get connected to supports near you and join support forums and hear the real-life stories of others in similar situations.
Good2Talk provides free, confidential, 24/7 support services for post-secondary students in Ontario and Nova Scotia. Through Good2Talk, you can gain guidance on any issue that is affecting your mental health and well-being.
ConnexOntario provides free and confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with gambling, alcohol and drugs or mental illness.
- Their system navigation and information service is live-answer 24/7, confidential, and free.
