Guides for Parents of Teens and Young Adults Navigating Gambling
These short guides are written for parents who are new to the world of youth sports betting, online gambling, and problem gambling.
Signs Your Teen or College Son’s Sports Betting Is Becoming a Real Problem
Learn the difference between “normal” interest in sports and warning signs of sports betting addiction in teens and young adults.
We’ll cover chasing losses, lying about money, mood swings, and other red flags of youth problem gambling that parents often miss at first.
Understanding Why Youth Gambling Happens: It’s About More Than Money
If every conversation about gambling turns into a fight, you’re not alone.
This guide walks you through how to start the conversation, phrases that reduce defensiveness, and how to stay calm when you’re scared or angry.
Setting Boundaries Around Money, Apps, and Gambling Without Losing Your Relationship
You don’t want to be controlling. You also don’t want to watch your son gamble away his future.
Here you’ll learn practical boundaries around bank accounts, betting apps, and access to money that protect both your child and your home.
Setting Boundaries Around Money, Apps, and Gambling Without Losing Your Relationship
You don’t want to be controlling. You also don’t want to watch your son gamble away his future.
Here you’ll learn practical boundaries around bank accounts, betting apps, and access to money that protect both your child and your home.
OTHER RESOURCESQuick Help if You Need Support Right Now
If you’re in immediate crisis because of gambling – serious debt, safety concerns, or thoughts of self‑harm – please reach out for help right away.
Contact your local problem gambling helpline (search “problem gambling helpline” plus your state).
Reach out to your family doctor, pediatrician, or another trusted professional for urgent support.
Look up peer support groups for families of problem gamblers in your area or online.
These national and state resources can offer additional information about youth gambling, sports betting risks, and treatment options.
You are allowed to ask for help from more than one place at the same time.
How to Use These Resources Without Getting Overwhelmed
You might be tempted to read everything at once, then freeze. That’s normal when you’re scared.
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01
Start with the Gambling Control Score
This quick score helps you understand where you are right now — no judgment, just clarity.
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02
Read one guide that fits your biggest question
Pick what matters most today. You don’t need to read everything to make progress.
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03
Write down one small action for this week
One realistic step. Small actions done consistently beat big plans every time.
When You’re Ready to Talk, I’m Here
Articles and tools are helpful. But they don’t know your child. They don’t know your story.
If you want a real‑time conversation with someone who understands youth gambling, sports betting, and the way it tears at families, the next step is a parent consultation.
When you’re ready to move from reading to action, let’s talk.
