Education
Youth & Young Adult Gambling:
What You Need to Know
For parents, coaches, teachers, and trusted adults
WHY IT MATTERS:
Gambling looks different today. With sports betting, apps, and online games, it’s easier than ever for youth and young adults to access and engage in gambling. Some video games include loot boxes, skins betting, or other chance-based features that can blur the line between gaming and gambling. In Virginia, nearly 1 in 5 people contacting the problem gambling helpline for support are age 24 or younger. Early exposure to gambling can increase the risk of financial, emotional, and behavioral harms later in life.
The Regulation Journey
From Stakeholder to Self
Walking Safely through Problem Gaming and Gambling
Part of JMU’s Wellness Passport
Thursday, October 1, 2026
JMU Campus/Taylor 405
5 – 6 pm
Description:
Join us for an evening of insightful conversations from those in the gaming and gambling industry to the field of prevention, treatment and recovery as we learn more about creating an environment that brings healthy balance. An interactive panelist discussion that offers new perspectives on gaming and gambling health that can blaze a trail ahead for you and those around you.
Sponsors/Partners:
- JMU Counseling Center
- Virginia Partnership for Gaming & Health (Hope, Support, Solutions)
- Virginia Lottery
- VCPG
- HRCSB
Recovery is possible and we are here to help.
Hear from gamblers in recovery, speak with an expert about concerns, learn more about our wellness calls/GA meetings, or find general information.
The Helpline Counselor I spoke with was amazing. She was kind and knowledgeable. She made me feel good about reaching out for help.
The Helpline Counselor I spoke with was the best. She uplifted my spirits and allowed me to know I made the right step and that I can do this.
The Helpline Counselor I spoke with talked to me for a good long time. She was very helpful and kind and told me of many options. She was such a help and she made me feel a lot better. I was desperately seeking help, and I am glad she was there.
The Helpline was so helpful. She was a good listener. She answered all my questions and made me feel good about calling. I received lots of helpful information.
Hearing from the VCPG Team on the bi-weekly wellness calls, ‘You can do this, ‘give this a try, what do you want to do’ and ‘how can we be of help’ keeps me grounded and focused on my recovery. Thank God that I did not have to do it my way or alone. Thank You VCPG support team.
I think it's important to recognize that these are people — they have lives in which they're contributing to their communities. This problem is disruptive to their ability to do that. I think it's important to increase the education and awareness to try and reduce this stigma and support those who need the help.
It’s the only addiction that offers hope. I called the Council’s Helpline. I got involved in Gamblers Anonymous, and pulled myself into recovery and started a new career as a counselor working with people struggling with their own gambling issues.