Protecting Young People: Youth Gambling Prevention Month and Its Link to Youth Substance Use

Every March, communities across the U.S. observe National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) — a time dedicated to raising awareness about gambling harm, promoting prevention, and connecting families to education and support. This movement matters because problem gambling isn’t just a “bad habit” — it can disrupt school, relationships, and overall well-being for young people.(National Council on Problem Gambling)

Why Focus on Youth Gambling?

While gambling is legally restricted to adults, many youths still engage in gambling behaviors — from sports betting and card games to online gaming features that mimic real wagering. Studies show that adolescent gambling behaviors often occur alongside other high-risk activities, including alcohol and substance use. In one research sample, youth who gambled frequently also reported high levels of alcohol problems, illustrating how risky behaviors cluster in adolescence. (PubMed)

In fact, problem gambling doesn’t exist in a vacuum: gambling and substance use share similar risk factors. These include things like peer influence, a lack of supervision, mental health challenges, and stress — all of which raise the chance a young person might turn to risky behavior to cope or seek excitement. (youth.gov)

Gambling Prevention and Its Connection to Substance Use Prevention

Efforts to prevent youth gambling are naturally linked to strategies that reduce youth substance use:

• Shared Risk & Protective Factors: Research on youth behavior shows that multiple risk factors (like peer substance use, family stress, and low academic connection) increase the likelihood of both gambling and substance use. Conversely, strong protective factors — such as parental involvement, emotional support, and engagement in school — help shield youth from both.(youth.gov)

• Healthy Development Matters: The adolescent brain continues developing into the mid-20s. This makes teens more vulnerable to addictive behaviors — not just with substances like alcohol or drugs, but also activities like gambling that trigger reward pathways in the brain. Early exposure to risky behaviors can make later addiction more likely.

• Prevention Skills Translate: Many proven substance use prevention strategies also reduce gambling risk — including building life skills, promoting healthy alternatives, and educating young people about consequences before problems start. For example, programs that teach decision-making, stress management, and refusal skills discourage risky behavior across the board.

What Can Families and Schools Do?

1. Start Conversations Early. Talk with children about what gambling is and why even small bets can become harmful before they start. Be open, non-judgmental, and fact-based — kids respond better to coaching than to lectures.

2. Strengthen Protective Factors. Encourage activities that boost confidence and connection, such as sports, arts, volunteering, and school clubs. These help youth find excitement and belonging without risk.

3. Educate About Risks. Use PGAM (March) to share resources in schools and community groups. Hosting workshops, sharing informational content, and involving peers in awareness campaigns help normalize healthy choices.

4. Set Clear Expectations. Just as with alcohol or drug use, setting boundaries and expectations around gambling — and explaining why they exist — helps youth internalize values that keep them safe.

5. Watch for Early Signs. If young people show changes in mood, hunger for secretive behaviors, or sudden time spent online gambling, consider reaching out for help early. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term harm.

Harness the Power of Awareness Months

March’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month offers a perfect opportunity to elevate this conversation. With campaigns focusing on understanding, prevention, and community support, educators, families, and young people can make real progress. (National Council on Problem Gambling)

By addressing youth gambling risk alongside substance use prevention — and celebrating prevention science that strengthens protective factors — we can support healthier, more resilient young generations.

Resources

Focus Youth Gambling Prevention https://www.focusyouthgamblingprevention.org/

National Council on Problem Gambling https://www.ncpgambling.org/ncpg/

Illinois Council on Problem Gambling https://illinoisproblemgambling.org/resources/

Gamblers Anonymous https://gamblersanonymous.org/