Rising Tide of Gambling Addiction Among College Students Using Financial Aid Funds

Statistics from the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling indicate a troubling trend among college students, with roughly 20% reportedly using their financial aid to fund gambling habits.

This concerning data sheds light on the growing issue of gambling addiction among the younger demographic, particularly in an era where sports betting is becoming increasingly accessible across the United States.

With 38 states and Washington D.C. legalizing some form of sports betting, the allure of wagering has never been more potent, especially among college students. Ted Hartwell, the Executive Director of the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, points out a significant rise in gambling-related problems coinciding with the sports betting boom. “Approximately two-thirds of all college students bet on sports,” Hartwell noted, emphasizing the exacerbation of gambling harm due to the sector’s growth.

The personal testimony of Saul Malek, a Nevada native and recovering sports betting addict, illustrates the human cost behind these statistics. Malek’s descent into addiction began in his sophomore year of college in Texas, with gambling quickly consuming his thoughts.

College Students’ Gambling Addiction Surge

“Within the first five to six months, there was a point where I recognized I felt uneasy when I wasn’t gambling,” Malek recounted. His realization of the problem came too late, after a significant emotional toll and a breakup with his girlfriend. Since seeking help in 2019, Malek has dedicated his efforts to educating others on the risks of sports betting addiction.

Despite the legal gambling age restrictions in the US, the rise in gambling addiction calls to hotlines since the COVID-19 pandemic has been stark, highlighting the ease of access to online betting platforms. Along with this is the influence of major league sports teams establishing themselves in areas like the Las Vegas valley. Hartwell’s observation that sports betting addiction often leads to the most self-reported problematic behavior underscores the need for greater awareness and preventative measures.

Alarmingly, only about 25% of colleges and universities currently have gambling policies in place. Hartwell advocates for the inclusion of gambling-related questions on health forms to facilitate early detection of problem gambling. “You should always expect to lose your money when you gamble,” Hartwell advised, urging that gambling should only involve disposable income—a principle often ignored by students gambling with funds meant for their education.

The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling’s findings highlight a critical issue facing today’s youth, suggesting a dire need for educational institutions to play a more active role in identifying and addressing gambling harm among their students.

As more individuals, like Malek, come forward with their stories, the conversation around gambling addiction and its impact on young lives continues to grow, emphasizing the importance of support, awareness, and policy implementation to mitigate this escalating concern.