Young adults taking excessive gambling risk
Young Adults Taking Higher Gambling Risks, Study Finds
Young adults are increasingly engaging in risky gambling behaviors, with nearly half of those aged 18 to 24 admitting to betting more than they can afford to lose, according to a recent study conducted in the United Kingdom.
The study, commissioned by advocacy organization GambleAware and conducted by Ipsos, revealed that 42% of young adults who had gambled in the past year took financial risks to place bets. Additionally, 36% admitted to borrowing money or selling possessions to fuel their gambling habits.
Gambling: A Growing Public Health Threat
GambleAware’s CEO, Zoe Osmond, emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating that gambling poses a significant public health threat that is on the rise.
The study also highlighted the negative emotional impact of gambling, with a majority of participants expressing feelings of guilt or shame about their behavior. Furthermore, 39% reported experiencing mental health problems as a result of their gambling activities.
The Prevalence of Gambling Problems Among Young People
According to the American Psychiatric Association, teenagers and young adults are more susceptible to gambling problems, with 10% to 15% of this age group experiencing significant issues compared to less than 4% of older adults.
In the United States, approximately 8% of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 could be classified as problem gamblers, with the average age of starting to gamble being around 10 years old.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
Previously classified as an impulse control disorder, gambling addiction was reclassified as an addiction in 2013. Researchers are still studying the neurological changes that gambling may cause in the brain.
Similar to substance misuse disorders, gambling addictions involve individuals developing an increased tolerance, requiring more gambling over time to feel satisfied. Withdrawal symptoms are also common when attempting to quit.
“As a hidden addiction, gambling harms can be incredibly hard to spot from the outside,” said Osmond. “It is therefore critical that people impacted are aware of the wide range of support services available, and that they feel safe to come forward.”
The Rise of Online Gambling
The majority of young adult and teenage gamblers now engage in online games, making it easier to conceal their behavior.
“Anyone can be impacted by gambling harms, but the first step is to open up and have that first conversation, ideally as early as possible,” added Osmond.
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How does excessive gambling impact the mental health of young adults?
Often overlooked. She stressed the need for increased awareness and intervention to address the growing problem of excessive gambling among young adults.
The study also found that young adults were more likely to engage in online gambling, with 59% of them admitting to gambling online in the past year. This is concerning as online gambling can be more addictive and easily accessible, leading to higher levels of risk-taking behavior.
The impact of gambling on mental health was also highlighted in the study. It revealed that young adults who gambled excessively were more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. This correlation suggests that gambling can have detrimental effects on mental well-being, further substantiating the need for intervention and support services.
The study’s findings raise important questions about the role of both the gambling industry and society in protecting young adults from gambling-related harm. It calls for stricter regulations on gambling advertisements and promotions targeted at young adults, as well as increased support services and education to raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling.
Additionally, the study revealed that young adults’ perceptions of gambling were often skewed. Many believed that gambling was a way to make money or escape their problems, further fueling their participation in risky behaviors. This highlights the importance of addressing misconceptions and promoting responsible gambling practices to young adults.
The findings of the study have important implications for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and educators. It is crucial that preventative measures and support services are put in place to protect young adults from the harms of excessive gambling. This may include offering counseling services, providing resources for financial education, and implementing stricter regulations on the gambling industry.
In conclusion, the study conducted by GambleAware and Ipsos sheds light on the increasing prevalence of risky gambling behaviors among young adults. The findings underscore the urgent need for action to address this public health threat. By raising awareness, promoting responsible gambling practices, and providing support services, we can work towards protecting young adults from the negative consequences of excessive gambling.
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