As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can make a positive impact on the next generation. Youth face challenges that can affect their decisions, including risky behaviors like gambling. With the increasing presence of gambling advertisements, online platforms, and peer influences, it’s important our young people are empowered with the tools they need to make healthy, informed choices.
Understanding the Impact of Youth Gambling
The statistics about youth gambling are alarming but offer us a critical opportunity to make a change. 23% of students in New York State reported gambling one or more times in the last year (OASAS, 2022). Even more concerning, 30% said that it was easy for them to get involved in gambling. Many of these youth find themselves drawn to gambling during their free time, with 65% reporting that they prefer to gamble on weekends. 85% of young people say their parents feel gambling is wrong (OASAS, 2015).
Gambling, especially when it starts in youth, can quickly turn to problem gambling and have serious consequences. These consequences include poor grades in school, damaged relationships, and increased risk for substance abuse.
There’s hope! With awareness, action, and a strong sense of community, we can prevent youth gambling.
Taking Action to Prevent Youth Gambling
We all have a role to play in preventing youth gambling. Here are some actionable steps to take:
Talk About Youth Gambling
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent youth gambling is through open and honest conversations. Whether you’re a peer, parent or community leader, we all have the power to reinforce this message by discussing the risks of gambling and offering guidance on how to recognize and avoid unhealthy behaviors. Set aside time this year to talk about gambling, how it works, and the potential risks.
Provide Education and Resources
Prevention works best when we have the information to support informed decisions. Schools, community centers, and online platforms should provide resources and education to help youth understand the dangers of gambling. Additionally, we should all know positive alternatives to risky behavior. This adds additional tools to ease the stress of figuring out why not to gamble, and what to do in its place.
Limit Access to Gambling Platforms
Youth may see gambling as an easy way to have fun. Help them by setting boundaries, and teaching them to set their own boundaries, around screen time, keeping track of online activity, and being proactive about limiting access to gambling websites or apps. We can help prevent exposure to harmful influences.
Model Positive Behaviors
Youth are influenced by what they see around them. People in a young person’s life (i.e. peers, parents, teachers, coaches, or mentors) play a key role in shaping attitudes toward gambling. These people can display responsible behavior. This behavior can include budgeting, making healthy choices, and participating in recreational activities. These examples can have a lasting impact on how youth view gambling.
Get Involved in Prevention Efforts
Communities are stronger when they come together to address challenges like youth gambling. Your involvement can make a big difference in building a safer environment for young people. Join local efforts to raise awareness about youth gambling prevention. Attend workshops, share helpful resources, and encourage others in your community to get involved.
Check out the YOU Decide Website Resources
YOUDecideNY.org provides resources for youth, young adults, parents, and community influencers. The site includes user-friendly content to guide your conversations and direct you to helpful support services if needed.
Finding Help and Support
If you find yourself struggling with gambling harm, or if you suspect someone you know is facing such challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help. For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on our NYProblemGamblingHELP.org HOME PAGE to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.
Support is just a call or click away, offering hope and solutions to families facing gambling-related challenges.
Let’s Make 2025 a Year of Positive Change
As we look to the year ahead, let’s commit to a future where youth gambling is no longer normalized. Where young people have the knowledge, support, and tools they need to make healthier choices. Together, we can build a stronger, safer community for our youth, empowering them to take charge of their lives and futures.