Studies show that teens are gambling in some form long before they reach the legal age limit.
Gambling & Young Adults
Find out why 18-24 year olds are at a high risk of developing gambling problems and how to spot the signs.
People between the ages of 18-24 are at a high risk of developing gambling problems. At this age, the brain is still developing and emotion and logic aren’t fully formed. This means that decision-making ability hasn’t yet matured, making young adults more likely to take risks or act impulsively.
Facts about young adults and gambling
- Online gambling is one of the strongest predictors of gambling problems in young adults (Responsible Gambling Council, 2016.)
- Players 18–20 years are significantly more likely to have chased their losses and bet more than they could afford in the past (Ibid.)
60%
of young people aged 18–24 in Ontario have gambled (Responsible Gambling Council, 2016)
7%
of young adults have reported a gambling problem in the last 12 months, with a higher rate among young men (Ibid.)
47%
of video game players have made in-game purchases (Ibid.)
Early warning signs of a gambling problem:
- Skipping classes or work to gamble
- Spending less time with friends or avoiding family events to gamble
- Lying about how much time and money is spent gambling
- Poor nutrition, health and sleep
- Borrowing and/or stealing money to gamble
- Increased drinking and/or drug use
- Thinking about gambling frequently
The similarities between gaming and gambling
The link between online gambling and gaming is fast becoming blurred. Both are accessible from the same devices, a smartphone or computer, have elements of skill and chance, and are visually stimulating. Recently, gaming platforms have begun to incorporate “gambling-like” elements, like loot boxes, which are considered a form of gambling in some countries.
Help for Loved Ones
If you know someone who is displaying behaviours consistent with those that point to a gambling problem, find out how you can help them.
Find out howPrevention programs for young adults
If you’re a student or young adult, interested in learning more about responsible gambling, attend an education program.
Get help for a gambling problem
There’s a treatment centre ready, willing and able to help you.
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