'Know the Rules of the Game’ - Problem Gambling Awareness Efforts Focused on Lane County Youth

Gehrett, now a Monroe 8^th grader, was on hand to talk about why she created the poster and the importance of talking about youth gambling.

Monroe health teacher Sarah Kerr-Daly is having her students participate in the poster search again this year. “As a teacher, I feel it is my responsibility to educate students about all addictive behaviors—and problem gambling is definitely one of those addictions.  We need to educate youth before their behaviors become a problem.”

Julie Hynes, coordinator of Lane County’s problem gambling prevention program, stressed the importance of problem gambling awareness among youth as well as adults.  “Gambling isn’t usually harmful—but it can be every bit as addictive as alcohol and drugs.  All too often, well-meaning adults see gambling as a harmless alternative to alcohol or drug use among kids.” 

Many experts believe that casino nights and other gambling-related fundraisers can send confusing messages to youth. “We need to be careful about what we’re telling our kids,” said Hynes.  “Even if our kids aren’t actually betting money on these games, they’re learning behaviors now that can form habits down the road.”” 

In keeping with Oregon’s theme this year addressing youth gambling, Lane County’s Problem Gambling Prevention Program also launched the first-known radio public service announcements aimed at parents about youth gambling. The groundbreaking “Know the Rules of the Game” campaign began airing on 20 local radio stations, in both English and Spanish, to help increase adult awareness that gambling is not a risk-free activity for youth. 

Parents and teachers often don’t understand the potential dangers or recognize warning signs of youth problem gambling. These signs may not seem harmful or even apparent in the teen years, but develop a pattern of behavior that can lead to serious issues, such as bankruptcy, lost relationships, lost jobs, alcohol and substance problems, depression, and even suicide. 

Studies show that the earlier in life a person begins to gamble, the more at risk he or she is of developing a gambling problem later in life.   “The problem won’t develop overnight,” said Hynes, “so it’s important for parents to talk with their kids about gambling, monitor their behavior, set limits with their own spending, and know the warning signs of a problem.” 

Michele Tantriella-Modell, director of Eugene-based emergence Gambling Treatment Program, stated that anyone concerned about gambling behaviors can receive free and confidential help by calling the 24-hour help line at 1.877.MY.LIMIT (877-278-6766).

Parents and others can get tips and more information about problem gambling at Lane County’s problem gambling website, www.lanecounty.org/prevention/gambling.