Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline

Youth & Gambling

Can Youth Develop a Gambling Problem?

In the same way some youth experiment with drugs and alcohol during adolescents, some youth experiment with different kinds of gambling. Youth see their parents or relatives gambling for entertainment. But like other addictions youth are not aware of the risks they may encounter with excessive gambling. Youth are at risk of addictions at the same rates as adults.

Why do Youth Gamble?

Excitement
Play for fun
To feel included
They believe they can make money gambling

Where can I get help if I can’t change my own behavior?

Talk to your parent
Talk to your school counsellor
Understanding how gambling works may help change you’re gambling behavior. Use links for youth to learn more.
See a gambling counsellors as they are skilled at providing help to gamblers of any age.
Call, Email, Text, or Chat with Saskatchewan Problem Gambling Helpline.

These changes in behaviors will alert you to a gambling problem:

Drop-in academic performance
Drop-in attendance
Repeatedly coming up with reasons why they need money
Change in mood
Frequent arguments with parents or siblings
Behavior issues at school
Lying or stealing at home or in the community
Illegal behavior
Change in friends or peer group

Helpful Links: For Youth

Wanna Bet?
A magazine for kids concerned about gambling

Youth Bet
YouthBet.net is an interactive, multimedia website developed by youth, for youth to prevent gambling problems among youth ages 13-24.

Youth and Gambling Facts
This website was developed for youth to provide factual information about gambling and to dispel myths that could lead to problems with gambling.

Teenage Gambling Online
Talks about the risk factors for teens involved in online gambling, advice for parents of teen gamblers, a self-assessment for teens who gamble and some helpful links.

Teen Gambling the Hidden Addiction – National Post April 2, 2015

What Can I Do To Stop Gambling?

Set limits
Don’t bet money you cannot afford to loose
Play for fun and not for money
Find other activities that you enjoy
Learn more you know about the game and your chances of winning

Helpful Links: For Parents of Youth

International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems
For over 20 years, the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviours at McGill University has been at the forefront of leading-edge research aimed at identifying and understanding the critical factors related to youth gambling issues.

Youth and Gambling – Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario
The Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health brings treatment professionals and leading researchers together with experts in communicating and sharing knowledge. Their focus is on collaboratively developing, modelling and sharing evidence-based solutions to gambling-related problems, within Ontario and around the world.