Gambling can be both a cause or a consequence of poor mental health, and gambling harms can significantly impact an individual's wellbeing.

Find out about the links and the signs to look out for.

For students, life can be tough sometimes - study stress, social anxiety or friendship breakdowns, and the feeling of isolation after moving away from home. These things can affect an individual's mental health, and they might look for ways to feel better. Quick fixes, like drinking, taking illegal drugs, or gambling might feel like escapism, but they can also make things worse later on.

Gambling can be both a cause or a consequence of poor mental health, and gambling harms can significantly impact an individual's wellbeing, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Gambling can impact a young person's mental health, and the list, below, highlights some things for you to look out for in yourself, and in others.

• Increased anxiety
• Depression
• Social isolation
• Financial stress
• Sleep disruption
• Low self-esteem
• Risk of substance abuse
• Suicidal thoughts
• Academic decline
• Relationship strain

Recognising when you or someone you know is experiencing gambling harms can be challenging, as the signs are often subtle and may be masked by other behaviours or life stressors.

Changes in behaviour or mood might not immediately suggest that someone is experiencing gambling harm, but understanding potential warning signs can ensure that those who may be struggling are supported and can find help if they need it.

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Sources

Ygam
The links between gambling and mental health

By Ygam
In January 2023, Ygam launched an ambitious three-year rolling strategy, which will be reviewed and updated annually. This strategy outlines our vision, mission, and plans for the future, mapping our path to greater impact through innovation, education, and prevention.