How Sports Betting Could Impact College Students
From fantasy sports and card games to online gambling and sports betting, there are many opportunities to gamble on college campuses and in their communities. In fact, three out of four college students have reported engaging in some form of gambling.
With sports betting and different forms of gambling expanding in Ohio, the risk of developing a problem with gambling among college students could potentially increase. That is why Before You Bet has created the College Student Toolkit.
Problem gambling might not sound like a relevant concern for younger populations. But the truth is that the national rate for problem gambling among college students is 6%, more than double the general population. Moreover, problem gambling can adversely impact an individual’s mental health, a rising concern among college students in recent years. For students who love to cheer on their universities’ sports teams, sports betting provides another avenue for them to place bets on everything from the College Football Playoffs to March Madness and more.
With all this in mind, the College Student Toolkit can be a great resource. It spreads awareness of the effects of problem gambling on college students, provides free resources to students who may be struggling, and offers tips on how to gamble responsibly if choosing to do so.
The signs of a college student who might be struggling with gambling aren’t always easy to see. A few signs to look for include:
- Gambling more often or with more money
- Withdrawing from relationships
- Borrowing money
But if you or someone you know choose to gamble, there are ways to ensure that gambling stays responsible. Here are a few tips to play safer:
- Setting limits on how much you bet
- Keeping gambling a social activity
- Having other hobbies outside of gambling
To access resources dedicated to college students, visit BeforeYouBet.org/toolkit/college-student-toolkit/. If you’re looking for additional resources, Before You Bet also provides education, tips, and a free, two-minute quiz that gauges the risk level for gambling. Learn more at BeforeYouBet.org.