Have you ever had a gambling problem?

For some people gambling can change from entertainment and pleasure and become an issue. When that happens, gambling can play too big a role in a person's life and hurt them, their family, friends and the people who care them.

If your gambling is causing issues in your life, you can take steps to change this. Talking about gambling with somebody you trust can reduce the stress that can cause you to continue to gamble. If you have an issue with gambling there is free, confidential professional help and support available

Gambling among adolescents

Problem gambling for the adolescent is a level of gambling that creates problems for the gambler and his/her family. The level of gambling may interfere with personal relationships, with school or work, and may include diversion of funds needed for other purchases to the gambling activity. The adolescent may incur debts of substantial amounts to continue the activity. It is estimated that 80% of college students have engaged in gambling during the past year. Close to 20% report gambling on a weekly basis and 5% have a true gambling problem. These statistics confirm what is being called the "Silent Addiction of the 21st Century."