Special to the Times Vedette
The month of September is Responsible Gaming Education Month. According to a press release from New Opportunities, Inc. regarding problem gambling, more than half of teens gamble, despite it being illegal for those younger than 21. The release states that more than 20% of teens had bet on sporting events and 25% had played card or dice games.
Nancy Rowedder, a prevention supervisor for New Opportunities, says children who are exposed to and begin gambling by age 12 are four times more likely to struggle with compulsive gambling when they are older.
“While it may seem too early to think about your child gambling, some children start as young as 10 years old, and most have gambled by the age of 15,” she stated in a press release.
Rowedder says the following are signs that your child may be struggling with gambling.
- Playing gambling-type games on the internet.
- Asking for/borrowing money from family and friends.
- Bragging about winning.
- Decrease in school performance.
- Selling personal belongings.
- Withdrawal from friends and family.
- Lying, cheating, or stealing in school.
- Less involvement with usual activities.
- Missing money or valuables.
- Having gambling “stuff” (poker books, betting sheets, etc.)
If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing a problem with gambling, Rowedder recommends reaching out to 1-800-BETS-OFF from Your Life Iowa for free, confidential support.