Every November, we celebrate Veterans and Military Families Awareness Month. This is a time to honor those who have served and to recognize the powerful influence they have on their communities. Veterans are admired for their courage, discipline, and leadership. These same qualities make them especially impactful as role models for young people.
This month, we highlight how Veterans can use that influence to inspire youth toward healthy, positive decisions and help prevent the growing issue of youth gambling.
Understanding the Connection Between Veterans and Youth Gambling
Gambling among youth is becoming more common. Research shows that 23% of students reporting that they gambled, often during weekends. Young people learn by watching the adults around them, especially those they admire. When youth see a Veteran in their life gamble, it can make gambling seem normal or even admirable.
At the same time, Veterans are over 4x more likely to gamble than non-Veterans. Additionally, 43.1% of Veterans experience gambling harms, compared to just 6.5% of non-Veterans. This higher risk means that some Veterans may struggle with gambling harm, which can create emotional and financial challenges that affect their families, including children and teens who look up to them.
Veterans as Positive Role Models
Veterans have always embodied strength, service, and perseverance. When they use those same traits to guide youth, they have an incredible opportunity to shape a generation that values healthy choices. By openly discussing the risks of gambling and modeling alternative ways to manage stress, Veterans can support young people’s understanding that gambling isn’t a solution to life’s challenges.
Even more inspiring is when Veterans who have faced gambling harms choose recovery. Recovery is about healing, finding balance, and rebuilding a fulfilling life. Veterans who take that brave step show youth what true resilience looks like: admitting there’s a problem, asking for support, and working toward a healthier future. Their journey becomes a lesson in hope and strength that young people can carry forward.
Encouraging Healthy Conversations
Preventing gambling harm begins with open conversations. Veterans, parents, and community members can create “discussion moments” to talk about gambling and the risks involved. Youth can take part too by asking questions, learning about the warning signs, and even leading classroom or community projects to raise awareness.
Building a Community of Support
Everyone can play a role in creating healthier communities.
- Youth can start conversations and share what they learn with friends or teachers.
- Young adults can lead creative awareness activities like a 5K run, scavenger hunt, or fundraiser that promotes positive alternatives.
- Community leaders can include gambling education in local programs or share flyers to raise awareness about gambling risks among Veterans and youth alike.
This November, as we honor our Veterans, let’s also recognize their power to lead by example, showing our youth that real strength comes from making healthy, hopeful choices. By doing so, Veterans continue to serve not just their country, but the generations that follow.
Help and Hope
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.