Gambling among young people is more common than many parents assume — recent national and international surveys show that roughly one in five young people reported spending their own money on some form of gambling in the past year, and smaller but meaningful percentages are classified as “at-risk” or problem gamblers. Youth who begin gambling early are more likely to develop problematic gambling patterns later, and online betting, in-game gambling features, and easy access via family accounts have all raised exposure for teens. What may start as seemingly harmless activities, such as video games with loot boxes, can lead to serious issues – gambling is linked to the highest suicide rates among addictions.
Because adolescent brains are still developing, teens are more susceptible to risk-taking, reward-driven behavior, and peer influence — factors that can turn casual betting into a harmful habit. Problem gambling in adolescence is linked with poorer school performance, higher rates of anxiety and depression, financial trouble, and higher likelihood of other risky behaviors. Early conversations, clear limits, and knowing the warning signs can help families prevent harm and get help quickly if it’s needed.
Tips for Parents & Caregivers
Talk early and often — Discuss what gambling is, how odds really work, and why it can become addictive.
Monitor digital access — Keep an eye on apps, family accounts, and prepaid cards that might be used for betting.
Set clear limits — Create boundaries around sports betting, in-game purchases, or gambling-related media.
Look for red flags — Secrecy, missing money, declining grades, or increased anxiety can all be warning signs.
Reach out for help — If you’re concerned, talk to your child’s school counselor, pediatrician, or a gambling support service. For questions or concerns, you can contact the Prevention/Intervention Team for confidential advice – [email protected], 617.713.5149.
Monitor digital access — Keep an eye on apps, family accounts, and prepaid cards that might be used for betting.
Set clear limits — Create boundaries around sports betting, in-game purchases, or gambling-related media.
Look for red flags — Secrecy, missing money, declining grades, or increased anxiety can all be warning signs.
Reach out for help — If you’re concerned, talk to your child’s school counselor, pediatrician, or a gambling support service. For questions or concerns, you can contact the Prevention/Intervention Team for confidential advice – [email protected], 617.713.5149.
Helpful Resources
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – Offers confidential help through the National Helpline (1-800-522-4700) and state-by-state resources for families.
Adolescent Gambling Research – National Library of Medicine (PMC) – Overview of adolescent gambling studies, brain development, and links to mental health outcomes.
Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health: “Teens Gambling – It’s a Risk” – State-specific prevention tips, fact sheets, and referral links for Massachusetts families.
Adolescent Gambling Research – National Library of Medicine (PMC) – Overview of adolescent gambling studies, brain development, and links to mental health outcomes.
Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health: “Teens Gambling – It’s a Risk” – State-specific prevention tips, fact sheets, and referral links for Massachusetts families.
For more information and support, please visit the Community Resources page on our website.
