Admitting to a problem with gambling is a difficult step, and it can cost you relationships and money. But it is not impossible. There are resources for you to stop gambling today. These websites are reader-supported, and BetterHelp may earn commissions. While admitting to a gambling problem can be scary, there are many others who have overcome this condition. Read on to learn how to stop gambling now. Listed below are some of the most useful resources.
Problematic gambling in young adults
Gambling among adolescents and young adults is a widespread problem with significant public health and psychological implications. In a meta-analysis of 146 prevalence studies, Shaffer and Hall found that college students had higher rates of pathological and disordered gambling than the adult population overall. Regardless of the cause of the problem, the consequences of young adult gambling are significant and warrant serious consideration. Here are some of the most common causes and consequences of problem gambling.
The main causes of problem gambling are unclear, but social, family, and school related factors have been linked to higher risk behavior. Researchers have concluded that the psychological consequences of gambling are more severe among low-achieving students, and that these individuals are more likely to drop out of school. In addition, these young adults report having lower educational attainment than non-problem gamblers. Consequently, the low level of treatment seeking among young problem gamblers may be a function of lack of public awareness about disruptive gambling.
Symptoms of problem gambling in young adults
Behavioral research has shown that a significant number of young adults exhibit symptoms of problem gambling. This risky behavior is associated with depression, self-harm, and criminal activity. Problem gambling is also linked to alcoholism, smoking, and illicit drug use. Researchers found that these symptoms increase with severity of problem gambling. These symptoms are similar to those of adult problem gamblers. Listed below are the signs and symptoms of problem gambling in young adults.
The onset of problem gambling in young adults may be as early as adolescence. Gambling during adolescence has been associated with increased rates of problem gambling later in life. Moreover, research shows that individuals who begin gambling during adolescence have a greater chance of experiencing severe gambling problems later in life. Longitudinal studies have shown a faster progression from social gambling to problem gambling in young adults.
Ways to stop problem gambling in young adults
If you suspect that your child or teenager may be at risk for developing a gambling problem, it is essential to recognize the signs that he or she is at risk for a problem. There are many ways to help a person with gambling problems improve their situation. One way to do this is to set a time limit for gambling and never gamble with credit. Problem gamblers also tend to be more vulnerable to losing money if they are drinking while gambling.
If you have concerns that your child may be developing a gambling problem, the first thing to do is to find a support person. Ideally, the person should be a parent, a sibling, a friend, or a spouse. However, it is best if a parent or guardian is consulted as they may have a more personal knowledge of the child’s gambling habit than the child or a loved one.