Problem Gambling

Talking to youth about the risks and consequences of engaging in underage gambling activities can make a difference in the choices they make. Parents and caregivers, educators and community members can take steps to prevent youth gambling behaviors. 

• Encourage youth to be involved in positive social activities such as clubs, sports, and other positive community outlets
• Be a positive role model
• Talk early about the potential for gambling to be a problem
• Avoid giving scratch off tickets as gifts and/or encouraging underage gambling
• Monitor youth’s activities and friends
• Establish rules and enforce them

 Recommended Resources

• NY Council on Problem Gambling: Talk 2 Kids

Most adults can gamble responsibly. Having a plan before you gamble can help keep gambling fun and help you avoid consequences. Consider some of the following tips:

• Make a plan before you gamble.
  • Ask a friend to hold you to it.
• Set a limit on how much time you plan to spend gambling.
  • Be sure to balance gambling with other forms of entertainment.
• Set a limit on how much money you plan to gamble.
  • Only bet what you can afford to lose, treat whatever you wager as the cost of your entertainment.
• Take frequent breaks while gambling.
  • Getting lost in gambling activities may result in losing track of your spending.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while gambling.
  • Decisions made while impaired may later be regrettable.
• Know how the games work and the odds of winning.
  • Gambling is for entertainment only and should not be used as a way to make money.
• Avoid chasing losses.
  • Never continue gambling to try and win back lost money.
• Gamble when you’re feeling positive and looking to have fun.
  • Don’t use gambling to cope with or escape from feelings of stress, loneliness or depression.

Lastly and most importantly, if you notice warning signs of a gambling problem in your life, know that it is okay to ask for help:

• To get help for problem gambling, for yourself, or a loved one, please reach out to:

• NYS HOPEline at: 1-877-8-HOPENY or
• The NY Council on Problem Gambling at: nyproblemgamblinghelp.org

Recommended Resources

• Stick to the Game Plan - OASAS Public Awareness Campaign 

• ResponsiblePlay.org
• Know the Odds
• International Center for Responsible Gaming

There are many types of gambling opportunities in New York State. You must be 18 to gamble, including buying lottery tickets or buying/selling raffle tickets. If a casino sells alcohol, you must be 21 to enter the casino floor.

Some of the most popular types of gambling are:

• Casinos
• Lottery/Scratch-off tickets
• Sports Betting
• Horse Betting
• Bingo
• Raffles/Office Pool

Most adults who gamble do it for as a recreational, fun activity without any negative consequences. For some, it can become a problem just like alcohol or drugs.

Some warning signs that gambling might be a problem include:

• Thinking often about gambling
• Covering up/lying about gambling behaviors
• Missing time with friends and loved ones to gamble
• Gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
• Gambling more money than planned or can afford
• Trying unsuccessfully to cut back or stop gambling

Contact your local Problem Gambling Resource Center to receive support, information and/or be connected with a problem gambling provider in your community.

Call the free, confidential NYS HOPELINE - 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) for help, and referrals to treatment.