Youth Gambling - Concerned Parents and Caregivers
Youth are twice as likely to develop gambling problems as adults. Kids are gambling more than they are using alcohol, cigarettes or illegal drugs.
Be aware that this is the first generation of young people who are growing up in a gambling saturated culture. It is important for parents to have a role in preventing gambling problems.
Remember that most kids will not develop a problem with gambling.
Children learn about gambling from their parents and older family members. We know that kids who see their relatives gambling too often are at risk for developing problems.
If you gamble be conscious of the impression you give your children. Remember to talk about your losses as well as your wins.
Impress upon your kids that gambling is a form of entertainment and not a way to make money.
Share leisure activities with your children that do not involve gambling. Taking your kids to the track and placing bets for them, placing sports bets for your kids and buying them lottery tickets are giving them a message. Try to think of alternate ways to have fun.
In the same way that you would talk to your kids about safe alcohol use, make sure you communicate your values and opinions about gambling.
Talk with your school about including problem gambling prevention in the curriculum. Arrange for a presentation at a Parents Meeting.
Warning Signs of a Possible Gambling Problem for Parents
If your child:
| • | Promises to cut back on gambling. |
| • | Has frequent emotional highs and lows (mood swings). |
| • | Refuses to explain behaviour or lies about it. |
| • | Appears "spaced out" while gambling. |
| • | Shows an interest in parent's or sibling's gambling activities. |
| • | Asks parents to place bets for him / her. |
| • | Is interested in picking lottery numbers. |
| • | Has lottery tickets, bingo cards, IOU's. |
| • | Is a frequent video game player, especially enjoying computer/video simulated gambling-type games. |
| • | Has abused substances such as alcohol or drugs. |
| • | Repeatedly seeks activities that produce a "high". |
| • | Appears nervous when observing sports on television. |
| • | Carries excessive amounts of cash. |
| • | Is experiencing lower school grades or absenteeism. |
It is important to remember that it is a constellation of these behaviors that might indicate a potential problem with gambling.
If your child has a problem - help is available.
It is important to know that solving your child's financial problems related to gambling
- known as a "bail out" - does not solve the gambling problem. Sometimes it simply provides relief so that he or she can start gambling again.
Problem gambling may be mild, moderate or severe. It is important to avoid telling your child he or she has a disease, or that they are an addict. It is best to focus on the behavior and the consequences of the behavior .. making change is possible !
If you have concerns on gambling and young people, give us a call at (519) 673-3242 ext. 234 or click here to e-mail our gambling intake worker.
