Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline
Majoring in Wagering?
If they’re not smoking, drinking, or using drugs, what's the big deal? With the increasing availability, accessibility, and acceptability of gambling, more young people are gambling than ever. What may seem like harmless fun can actually develop into a serious problem for some people.
As educators or counselors, you play an important role in the prevention of problem behaviors among your students.
Three key points about youth gambling:
1. Gambling is not a safe alternative to alcohol or drug use. Many people think that poker among friends is totally safe because young people are not drinking or smoking. The truth is, while most people don’t have problems when they gamble, more young people are developing problems with gambling. Consequences of problem gambling include more than lost money. Depression, social withdrawal, and school dropout are just a few of the consequences of a gambling problem.
2. Many teens already have gambling problems. It may only be a harmless bet of a dollar or two, but it can become a lot more serious. An Oregon study showed that one in every 25 teens (4 percent) have a gambling problem. An additional 15 percent are at risk for developing a gambling problem.
3. Teens are only a few years away from being adults who can gamble legally. Honest education about gambling is important to preparing young people to make responsible choices.
Why should I be concerned about my students?
One in 25 Oregon teens meet the criteria for problem gambling.
Is there a problem gambler in your class?
- Problem gambling affects school performance and increases the dropout rate.
- Many problem gamblers say they started out gambling at an early age--approximately 10 years old.
- About one in every 25 Oregon teens already has a gambling problem.
- Young people often don’t have well developed coping or decision-making skills.
- Young people can easily hide a gambling problem.
- There are no needle marks, drowsy walking, bloodshot eyes, or other tell-tale signs so that others can get help.
- The problem typically develops over several years. Without prevention efforts now, small problems can escalate into serious consequences down the line.
How we can support you.
Problem gambling prevention can supplement your current classroom activities—not add more work for you!
Problem gambling activities/info that “plug in” to existing substance abuse prevention curriculum
- Educational materials
- Free youth gambling awareness video (featuring Oregon teens) and educational guide
- Presentations to educators, administrators, and parent groups
- Problem gambling awareness artwork search (visit www.lanecounty.org/prevention/gambling for examples )