When we think about gambling, we often picture seasoned adults at casino blackjack tables or perhaps cheering on horses at the track. However, an alarming trend is emerging, as young people are becoming increasingly at risk of developing gambling problems.
The intersection of technology, the normalization of gambling in the media, and peer pressure are contributing to a new wave of young gamblers. According to a 2020 study by Wilder Research, 18% of Minnesota gamblers reported gambling for the first time when they were younger than the legal age limit. Since that study, gambling has only become more accessible for young people.
As we observe this concerning shift, it is important for parents, educators, and community leaders to understand how young people are particularly vulnerable to problem gambling, and to know what resources are available to help.
Young people who gamble are also at an increased risk of co-occurring mental health challenges.Adolescence and young adulthood are critical periods of brain development. The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control, is still maturing during these years. This means that young people are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including gambling, without fully considering the long-term consequences. Gambling can seem exciting or harmless at first, but for some, it quickly escalates into a serious problem.
Peer pressure also plays a significant role. With the increasing availability of online gambling platforms and social media, young people may feel the pressure to fit in by participating in gambling activities. They may not realize the potential for addiction and negative financial or emotional consequences. What starts as a casual bet with friends, or a quick online game can snowball into something more dangerous, with long-term effects on mental health, relationships, and finances.
Constant exposure to gambling in the media — whether in advertisements, sports, or entertainment — can also make it seem like a normal, even glamorous, activity. The boundaries between entertainment and real-life gambling can be blurry, especially with the proliferation of online gambling apps, which are easy for young people to access on their phones. This normalization makes it difficult for many to see the warning signs of problem gambling until it’s too late.
Problem gambling can have devastating consequences for anyone, but it’s particularly troubling for young people. It can affect academic performance, damage relationships, and lead to financial instability. Additionally, the emotional toll can be severe — feelings of shame, guilt, and depression can worsen as the addiction deepens.
Young people who gamble are also at an increased risk of co-occurring mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. In many cases, gambling becomes a way to cope with other issues, which only amplifies the problem. It’s crucial that young people recognize the signs of unhealthy gambling behavior before it reaches a crisis point.
It’s important for all of us — parents, teachers, counselors and community members — to stay vigilant and proactive in addressing gambling risks. If you’re concerned about a young person in your life, open the conversation. Let them know that gambling can become an addictive and harmful behavior. Encourage them to seek help if they experience any negative consequences from gambling.
In Minnesota, resources are available for those who need support. The Minnesota Department of Human Services has a youth-focused website – justaskmn.org – that provides resources for individuals and families to better understand problem gambling. It offers advice on how to talk to young people about the risks and provides information on where to find help. Whether you’re seeking guidance on how to prevent problem gambling, looking for signs to watch for, or need support yourself, justaskmn.org has helpful tools and resources available to guide you through the process.
By raising awareness about the risks of problem gambling, especially among young people, we can help prevent serious consequences before they arise. We all have a role to play in educating the next generation about responsible choices and the potential dangers of gambling. Together, we can reduce the impact of problem gambling and support healthier, happier lives.
Teresa Steinmetz is the assistant commissioner of the Behavioral Health Administration at the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
Last Updated on March 10, 2025