Does My Child Have A Gambling Problem?

Youth problem gambling often develops quietly, but there are common signs and risk factors to watch for. Recognizing these early can help parents and caregivers step in before the problem grows.

Compulsive gambling is a progressive illness – it does not resolve on its own, and ignoring it only allows the problem to take a deeper hold. Even though it can feel scary, parents should not let fear or denial keep them stuck—taking action now is the best way to protect your child from heading down a destructive path, or if they are already suffering, to begin the path toward healing.

First Steps

You are not alone. We are here to support you, to listen, and to walk with you through every step of this journey. You don’t have to face this by yourself — together, we can find a way forward.

What Does It Mean To Have A Gambling Problem?

Gambling disorder is a recognized medical condition—not just a phase or bad behavior. It is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and is defined by ongoing, uncontrollable gambling even when it causes problems with money, relationships, or health, and the person struggles to stop, even if they want to. If your child is suffering it’s important to know this is a real health issue, and with the right support, recovery is possible. Gambling disorder is a progressive disease that worsens over time without help. Early intervention is crucial—it can stop the cycle before serious financial, emotional, and relationship harm occurs.

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What Does A Gambling Problem Look Like?

Story #1 - His grades crashed and we didn't know why

Father of a 20-year-old

“Our son went from Dean’s List to academic probation in one semester. When we asked what happened, he blamed hard classes, bad professors, anything but the truth. We learned later he’d been spending 6-8 hours a day on betting apps—during class, instead of studying, even through finals. He wasn’t partying or lazy. He was trapped in a cycle of betting, losing, and betting more to recover. By the time we discovered it, he’d failed three classes and owed $15,000.”

Story #2 - His brain was hijacked

Mother of a 28-year-old

“When my son started gambling, I thought it was about the money. The late car payments, the excuses, the money that seemed to disappear. But over time, I realized it wasn’t just about money—it was about his brain being completely hijacked. And the scariest part? He truly believed he was in control. He even had an idea to start an Instagram and blog to “teach people how to bet.” In his mind, it was smart, entrepreneurial. But I could see it for what it was: his hijacked brain trying to justify and normalize the addiction.”

Story #3 - It started on video games

Mother of a 22-year-old

“When he was 19, I found out that my son had been using video game skins to bet on offshore casino sites since he was 11 years old. He was isolated in high school, but since it was COVID, I did not think much about it. When he went away to college, he really collapsed as he got into other casino games online and sports betting. He got so out of control, smoking weed and betting constantly – lashing out at me whenever I would try to help. My once-loving son had been snatched by this disease, and I knew I needed to get educated and help him find treatment.”

Story #4 - My son was suicidal

Mother of a 22-year-old

“Between his gambling and weed addictions, my son was unrecognizable. He was always in a bad mood, triggered by the smallest things and we would have to walk on eggshells around him. When he was in one of his “episodes”, he would constantly spam me with text messages, asking for “just $5” so he could place a bet online, followed by nasty messages when I would say no. At one point, when he tried to stop gambling, he turned to Pokémon cards and became obsessed with buying them for the rush of opening the packs and the hope of scoring worthwhile cards. His addictions became so out of control that he contemplated suicide then finally agreed to get help and go to rehab.”

Story #5 - Bookies started harassing our family

Mother of a 21-year-old

“When my son turned 21, he started gambling at the casino. At first it seemed harmless, but before long he had gone through his savings. When the money ran out, he began betting with bookies who extended him credit, which only made things worse. Mondays became dreadful—he’d call, panicked, asking for money to pay what he owed. He started taking pay advances, either to return to the casino in hopes of winning back his losses or just to get access to cash. Eventually, he couldn’t keep up with rent or bills and had to move back home, overwhelmed by debt and the consequences of his gambling. Having him home has been incredibly stressful—the tension, worry, and constant fear of what might happen next have taken a heavy toll on the whole family.”

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Risk Factors

Some young people are more vulnerable to gambling problems than others. Understanding the factors that increase risk can help parents spot potential trouble early and take steps to protect their child. Remember though, anyone can develop a gambling problem, whether they are in a risk category or not.

Individual Factors

Early Exposure: The earlier a child is exposed to gambling—or even gambling-like activities in games—the greater the risk of problems down the road. What begins as “harmless fun” can set patterns of excitement and reward-seeking that are hard to break later in life.
Mental Health Struggles: Conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD significantly increase vulnerability to gambling problems. Young people with ADHD are 3-4 times more likely to develop a gambling disorder due to impulsivity, risk-taking tendencies, and the need for stimulation. Gambling may feel like a way to cope, escape, or seek thrills—but it can quickly lead to deeper problems.
Use of Substances: Substance use can raise the risk of gambling problems by lowering inhibitions and encouraging risky behavior. Young people who use alcohol or drugs are more likely to gamble excessively, making early intervention crucial.
Trauma or Adverse Experiences: Young people with a history of trauma, abuse, or significant life stress may turn to gambling as a way to escape or cope with painful emotions.
Competitive or Achievement-Oriented Personality: High achievers, perfectionists, and competitive athletes may be drawn to the challenge and thrill of gambling and winning. Those who tie self-worth to success may struggle more when losses occur.

Social and Environmental Factors

Peer Pressure: Friends have a powerful influence during adolescence. If peers are gambling, even casually, young people may feel left out if they don’t join in—making them more likely to experiment before they’re ready to handle the risks.
Social Disconnection: Youth who feel socially disconnected—whether from family, friends, or school—are at higher risk for developing gambling problems. A lack of belonging and poor coping skills can make gambling an appealing way to seek excitement, escape stress, or feel a sense of control.
Family Influence: When gambling is common in a household, kids often grow up thinking it’s a normal pastime. If a parent or close relative has a gambling problem, a young person’s chances of developing one themselves increase significantly.
Easy Access to Money and Apps: With credit cards, online wallets, and offshore gambling sites just a click away, it’s easier than ever for kids to place bets without parents realizing. This access can turn casual curiosity into serious financial and emotional consequences.

Warning Signs

Gambling problems often develop quietly, especially for young people. An issue can grow long before parents realize what’s happening. Learning the warning signs can help you recognize trouble early and take action.

Self-Assessments

Taking a problem gambling assessment can feel intimidating, but it’s an important step for any young person wondering if their gambling or betting habits might be becoming a problem. Answering honestly helps reveal the truth about behaviors and risks, and there’s no reason to be afraid—knowing is the first step toward getting the right support and making positive changes. Here are links to three questionnaires. Open a line of communication with your child about the answers.

Gam-Anon Questions – Could your child have a gambling problem or the beginnings of one? Answer these questions to assess the situation.
National Council on Problem Gambling – NCPG uses the NODS-SA assessment which your child can take online.
Emerging Adult Gambling Screen (EAGS®) – Developed at East Carolina University, a screener for young adults 18-24 who have gambled in the past year.

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You don't have to carry this alone.

No advice from people who’ve never been through it. No judgment. Just parents who understand.

Realizing your child may be struggling with gambling can feel overwhelming, frightening, and lonely — but you are not alone, and there is hope. Many parents have walked this road and found ways to help their children heal and rebuild trust. With understanding, support, and the right resources, recovery is possible. Reaching out for help is the first brave step toward healing — for your child, and for your family.