Gambling and young people
Learn to spot the warning signs. Stop gambling harm before it starts.
Is gambling getting to a young person you care about?
Kia ora! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about how gambling could be affecting the young person you care about.
Gambling harm isn’t always obvious at first and can be hidden from view. Learn about the warning signs, get ideas on how to start difficult conversations, and find help before harm takes hold.
Spot the warning signs
Are you noticing they’re:
- always asking to borrow money?
- always holed up in their room?
- more focused on betting than enjoying the game?
- always talking about gambling?
- losing interest in other activities?
- becoming secretive over money?
Time to have a chat? Here are some ideas to help you start the conversation / kōrero.
Get Support
Find out more about warning signs and what you can do.
Get support from a local support service.
More on youth gambling from our partners
PGF Services have tips to help with conversations about gambling.
Talking to young people/rangatahi about gambling.
‘Are you being played?’ is a campaign for young people focused on sports betting.
Is it gaming or gambling?
The line between gaming and gambling can be blurry. Learn how you can help your young person understand the difference.
PGF Services has tips and information on gaming and gambling.
Tūturu have gaming and gambling resources for use in education settings.
Know the signs
There are signs to look out for when gambling is no longer just for fun. Being aware of harmful gambling signs can keep you and others safe.
It’s important to recognise when your gambling is no longer just for fun.
Sharing and talking
Reaching out to friends or whānau you trust is a good first step if you’re worried about gambling. Kōrero about your feelings and discuss what you can do about it.
If you’re worried about your gambling, the best thing you can do is talk to someone you know and trust. Your friends and whānau may already be worried that something is troubling you and may even know it's gambling.
Know the signs
There are signs to look out for when gambling is no longer just for fun. Being aware of harmful gambling signs can keep you and others safe.
It’s important to recognise when your gambling is no longer just for fun.
Sharing and talking
Reaching out to friends or whānau you trust is a good first step if you’re worried about gambling. Kōrero about your feelings and discuss what you can do about it.
If you’re worried about your gambling, the best thing you can do is talk to someone you know and trust. Your friends and whānau may already be worried that something is troubling you and may even know it's gambling.