Teens - Let's Talk About Gambling
First let’s talk about what gambling is. Gambling is taking part in any game or activity in which you risk money or a valuable object in order to win money. And for many teens, gambling is just part of life, betting on the outcome of sports games, playing dice or card games for money or even gambling on internet games. Gambling is every where in your life. Sometimes teens believe it is a good way to make money, if they play long enough they’ll be sure to win This doesn’t happen.
Did you know that teens can develop gambling problems. In fact, 10-15% of teens have had a problem and 6% of teens have gone out of control with gambling, until it has become an addiction for them, something they felt they had to do.
Important Facts About Gambling
Getting Help
You might be wondering how anyone could get addicted to gambling, but just like drugs or alcohol you can. Gambling addictions can lead to missing school, failing grades, and problems with friends or family. If you or someone you know needs help try talking to your parents, a teacher or school counselor, friends, a community leader, or give us a call (1-800-GAMBLER) its free, its confidential, its available 24/7 and a trained counselor will help you find the best way to get help.
HOW WOULD YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE A GAMBLING PROBLEM?
Here are some warning signs! If you answer “YES” to any of these questions, you may have a gambling problem or be at risk for developing one.
- I’m always or nearly always thinking about gambling.
- I miss school or don’t go to work because I’m looking to play dice or some other game that involves winning money.
- I often lose more money than I can afford when I play dice.
- I have used my savings or money for necessary things like lunch money or book money for gambling.
- When I lose money, I feel like I have to continue gambling to cover my losses.
- I’m always anxious about finding a game and I get angry when I lose.
- I would never tell my parents or friends about how much I am losing when I play dice or doing other gambling.
- I have taken money that doesn’t belong to me so that I can gamble.
