You should know that you shouldn’t gamble if you’re underage. And that gambling as a teen can make you more likely to end up with a serious gambling problem later on. Don’t Bet On Your Future. Scroll down to learn more about the issue. There’s even a quiz you can take to gauge your risk level.
| Take the Quiz | Learn the Signs |
| Helpful Resources | Booster Program |
Teens can be exposed to traditional forms of gambling like casinos, lotteries, or sports betting, but also to new, less obvious forms like gaming, loot boxes, and fantasy sports. Research shows that children introduced to “harmless betting” by age 12 are four times more likely to engage in problem gambling later.
You’ve got a healthy mindset when it comes to gambling and gaming. You see it for what it should be – entertainment, not a way to make money or deal with stress. You know your limits, keep things balanced, and don’t let games or bets control your mood or your wallet.
Keep that smart approach in everything you do. Stay mindful, take breaks, and walk away from anything that stops being fun or starts to feel like pressure.
You’re making thoughtful choices – and that’s a win. You understand that gaming and betting should be just for fun, not a way to solve problems or escape stress.
Still, if you answered “yes” to any of the quiz questions, you’ve experienced at least one sign of risky behavior. Even small habits can add up over time. Keep setting limits, taking breaks, and checking in with yourself. If you ever feel like you need to play or can’t stop thinking about it, that’s a sign to talk to someone.
Your answers show a few warning signs. Maybe you’ve tried to win back something you lost, spent more than you planned, or felt stressed about the outcome.
It’s important to keep things fun and low-pressure. Set boundaries, take breaks, and avoid using games or betting to escape boredom or tough emotions. You’re in a good position to make changes now. Reaching out early is a sign of strength.
Your answers show some serious warning signs that things might be getting out of control. Maybe you’ve tried to win back money, felt anxious or guilty, or found it hard to stop once you started. You’re not alone – many people your age face similar challenges.
The good news? You can take back control. These problems don’t define you, and help is available. Talking to someone – a friend, counselor, or support line – can make a big difference. Don’t ignore the signs or try to handle it on your own.
Your answers show strong signs that gambling or gaming is causing real problems – or could soon. You might be spending more than you can afford, hiding your behavior, or feeling anxious, guilty, or stuck.
It's important to take action now. These issues are real, but they’re also treatable. You don’t have to face them alone – help, support, and recovery are possible at any age. Reach out to someone you trust or use the resources on this site to connect with free, confidential help. Taking that first step is a powerful move toward getting back in control.
Is your relationship to gambling and related activities a healthy one? Take our quiz to find out!
If you or a friend are showing these signs, it may be a gambling problem. See below for helpful resources.
Spending more money or credits after losing in a game or bet, hoping to “even it out.”
Using money meant for food, rides, or other needs to buy loot boxes, skins, or bets.
Deleting app histories or keeping your spending secret from parents or friends.
Constantly checking apps or planning your next chance-based purchase.
Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable when you can’t open loot boxes or place a bet.
Missing homework, sports, or hangouts because you’re playing or betting online.
Asking friends or family for cash or using someone else’s account to keep buying items.
Turning to gambling-like games to cope with problems at school or home instead of talking about them.
Learn the facts about youth gambling.
of adolescent boys have engaged in sports-related gambling.
of U.S. teens (ages 14-21) say they gambled at least once in the past year.
of adolescents (ages 12–17) may be affected by a very serious gambling problem.
of young people between ages 11 and 17 meet at least one indicator of a gambling problem.
of Michigan students aged 18-22 stay they’ve taken at least one risky gamble.
of parents were unsure or felt they wouldn’t know if their teen was gambling online.
Take advantage of the downloads below. You’ll find helpful resources, advice, and specialized information. To download, simply click on the resource name below: