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Youth gambling addiction is growing.
The statistics are alarming. A survey of adolescents found that more than 80 percent of those between 12 and 17 say they have gambled in the last 12 months. More than 35 percent say they gamble at least once a week. Clearly, gambling addiction is not just an adult problem.

Gambling can begin very early.
Young people begin gambling for purely innocent reasons, often at a very early age and with the endorsement of their parents and family. Afternoon poker games, sports betting and participation in sweepstakes, 50-50 drawings and casino nights provide a “stamp of approval.” Like with alcohol and drugs, young people see people they respect engaged in these activities and deem them to be acceptable. When an opportunity to gamble presents itself, they are often more open and accepting of it.

How and where young people gamble.
Most legal gambling is illegal for those under the age of 18. But finding adults to help them gamble, or finding others willing to break the law, is not difficult for the problem gambler. Adults buy lottery tickets for young people for the promise of “a piece of the winnings.” Groups of young people bet on the outcome of major sports events, and even school sports. Card games for money can take place almost anywhere. Bookies don’t ask for identification or report the winnings of their clients.

The impact of gambling addiction.
As with adults, youth gambling addiction can negatively impact every aspect of life, from learning and school performance, to mental and physical health. It can lead to criminal and other anti-social behavior. Studies have found that some young problem gamblers are also fighting alcohol and drug addictions.

Recognizing the young problem gambler.
As with any addictive behavior, there are often clear symptoms of a developing problem. Individually, these symptoms may not indicate a gambling problem. If you suspect a problem, a professional assessment is recommended.

Getting help from IIAR.
Counseling and treatment services are available for young problem gamblers. For information or to set up a confidential assessment, call Coleen Moore, MA, LCPC, CADC, CCGC, MISA II, Coordinator of Resource Development, at 309-691-1004 or 1-800-522-3784.

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To comment on this site or inquire about IIAR programs and services, or to receive additional information on any of the subjects discussed in this Web site, please e-mail our Vice President of Addiction and Behavioral Sciences, Rick Zehr (eric.zehr@proctor.org) or call 1-800-522-3784.

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This information is provided as a community education service about professional issues and is not a substitute for individual consultation. Advice on individual problems should be obtained through a professional. All personal and medical information provided to IIAR and its staff is held in strict confidence. This information will not be disclosed to any person or organization without the written consent of the patient or guardian.

The Illinois Institute for Addiction Recovery has centers at the following three locations:
Proctor Hospital, 5409 N. Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614, phone: 1-800-522-3784
BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Virginia at Franklin, Normal, IL 61761, phone: 309-888-0993
IIAR at Springfield, 3050 Montvale Drive, Springfield, IL 62704, phone: 217-726-6611

E-mail comments or requests for additional information to Rick Zehr (eric.zehr@proctor.org)

You may also contact: Randee McGraw, Administrative Director
Pam Hillyard, Manager
Coleen Moore, Coordinator of Resource Development
Patricia Erickson, Nursing Coordinator

©2005 Proctor Hospital