Gambling has been a famous leisure activity and a pass time habit for adults and young adults previously. However, recently young and teens are getting attracted towards online gambling and hence are becoming addicted towards it. Online gambling is now worth an estimated $30 billion. And online poker is estimated to be worth $6 billion annually. In 2018 the Annenberg Public Policy Center surveyed students and compared the results to their 2012 survey. They found that monthly use of internet gambling sites among college-age males shot up from 4.4% in 2012 to 16.0% in 2018. In spite of the sharp increase in participants, their frequency of use did not increase, remaining at about 3% on a weekly basis.
Today’s teens are living in a society where legalized gambling is not only socially acceptable; it is widely promoted and highly visible. 48 states now allow some form of gambling. Casinos advertise heavily on TV, radio, online and billboard ads. Poker tournaments complete with expert commentary, interesting filming angles, and million-dollar prizes have become “hot ticket” reality TV on cable & broadband networks.
Given the prevalence, visibility, and glamour now afforded to gambling, it is not surprising that many teens are drawn to the instant gratification, thrill, and hope of fast money. The three predominant reasons reported by teens for gambling are
(a) the excitement it brings,
(b) enjoyment, and
(c) to win money.
Given the ease of access and the allure that online gambling (and real world gambling) has on teens and college-age students, it is critical that youth (particularly males) and parents understand and discuss the risks to minors surrounding this activity. If you believe the problems you are facing require more assistance you may want to contact your primary care physician. After having read the effects of Online Gaming Addiction; the best way to tackle this issue is to consult a Psychologist or an experienced mental health professional which will help teens recover and protect them from the Addiction of Online gaming which is becoming common nowadays. Serene Retreat is one of the leading Addiction and Mental Health Treatment provider based in Malaysia with its branches locally and abroad.
For more information about our treatment programs you can reach us via Call/Whatsapp +60 14-687 2268 or visit our website www.sereneretreat.com.my.
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