Learn The Facts: Gambling
Gambling
More than 1,000,000 people in Illinois have or are at risk of problem gambling.
Gambling is defined as risking something of value on an activity or event in which the outcome is uncertain in hopes of winning something of material value. It is the playing of a game of chance for stakes. Common forms of gambling include horse and dog racetrack betting, off-track betting, lotteries, casino games, bingo, bookmaking (betting on sports or special events), Internet gambling, and stock market trading.
For something to be a gamble, it needs to have the 3 R’s: Risk, Reward, and Random.
- Something must be at risk, or something we lose if the game doesn’t go our way. This can include money and belongings.
- There must be a reward, or something to gain if we win. This can also include money and belongings.
- There must be some degree of randomness. Everything involves random chance. The more randomness involved, the more likely it is to be a gamble instead of a game.
For most people, gambling is a recreational activity. However, for an estimated three to five percent of the population, gambling becomes an easily “hidden” problem. The inability to stop gambling or to control compulsive behaviors can be devastating for problematic and compulsive gamblers and their families.
If you or someone in your life may be a problem gambler, Chestnut Health Systems™ can help. We offer assessment in a safe environment for gambling disorder, counseling, help in developing a support system, and support in addressing legal and financial issues.
For more information, please call us at 618.877.4420.
Youth Gambling
Do you think teens aren’t gambling because they aren’t old enough?
THINK AGAIN! 70% OF TEENS HAVE GAMBLED IN THE LAST YEAR.
For an activity to be ‘gambling’, it needs The 3 R’s:
- Risk - Something of value will be lost upon losing.
- Reward - Something of value to be gained upon winning.
- Random - Everything in life involves random chance. The more random chance involved in a game, the more likely it is a gamble.
Slot machines and the lottery fit in this description, but the stock market and 50/50 raffles do too! From video games to apps to sports-betting, things have changed in the world of gambling.
For adults, gambling is about doing it safely. To most adults, gambling is a social activity that causes no harm. For some, it leads to problem gambling, or continuing to gamble despite consequences like addiction and mental health concerns.
Teens can never gamble safely. Their brains are still growing and developing.
Teens can never gamble safely. Their brains are still growing and developing.
Out of almost 13 million Illinoisans (383,000 people) experience problem gambling. Another 761,000 people are considered at-risk for problem gambling.
Intense Feelings of hopelessness, desperation, guilt, fear, and shame can occur. These feelings often escalate as the problem gambling does.
If you think your teen might be experiencing problem gambling, or any other mental health concern, there is help available. All resources are available to both children and adults.