More and more young people are getting involved in gambling activities, and many are finding themselves developing unhealthy gambling habits. While many problem gambling support organisations are improving and expanding their support for adults, it is also crucial for these groups to consider the growing need for assistance that is geared towards younger individuals.
According to a report by the BBC, there is not enough support available for young people in England who are suffering from gambling addictions. GamCare noted that 3000 young people between the ages of 18 and 24 called the service for help with their compulsive gambling behaviour. However, the NatCentre for Social Research found that 83 000 young people between the ages of 16 and 24 are problem gamblers.
That there are a wide range of reasons that young problem gamblers do not come forward to seek help. Many young people are unaware of all of the options available, and others are too afraid. Problem gambling is a compulsion that is very easy to hide until it is too late. It is attached to a stigma in which problem gamblers are made to feel shamed rather than being looked at as a victim.
"It's almost shameful to ask for help with this sort of an addiction because you feel embarrassed," says 24-year-old Dave Hopson, who is unsure of where a person his age should go for help with their gambling addiction. "Where do you start? Do you go to A&E? Where do you start to look? I was never taught about [gambling] addiction at school." In Australia, responsible gambling organisations are working on a solution to this problem.
A new program has been implemented at schools across the country, which teaches young people about the risks of problem gambling. In addition to teach them how to gamble responsibly, the program will also ensure that young people know how and when to seek help.
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