While the vast majority of those old enough to legally gamble can do so responsibly, the most recent research estimates that 6 percent of college students in the U.S. have a serious gambling problem that can result in psychological difficulties, unmanageable debt and failing grades. Students who admit to having a problem sometimes find a lack of support on campus.
In this section, campus health professionals can find information, guidance and materials to help identify and provide assistance to students struggling with gambling addiction, and to educate students of legal age to gamble about how to make responsible decisions.
Review the latest facts on college gambling, including the health implications associated with gambling disorders among college students and co-occurring conditions associated with the problem.
Find information about ways to strengthen health promotion efforts on college campuses through policies that will (1) help reduce gambling disorders among college students and (2) enable students who are struggling with addiction to fully participate in college life.
Find materials, including fact sheets, brochures and posters, as well as suggestions to aid you and your school in its efforts to educate students about gambling.
Learn how to help college students who may have a gambling problem and the different treatment options for gambling disorders.
There are many ways that campus health professionals can stay up-to-date on the latest information and research on gambling disorders. Find information on (1) how to earn continuing education units through programs on gambling disorders, (2) how to obtain certification, and (3) additional resources for educational opportunities on gambling and gambling disorders.
Prepare to answer questions that arise as you confront the challenge of college gambling on your campus.