Gambling Most Popular Among Young Adults

Surveys say young people are twice as likely to develop serious gambling problems as their adult counterparts. A study by the Center for Addiction and Mental health also said so.

2005, the Center's study found out 4.5 percent of youth reported a gambling problem, compared with 3.5 percent in 2003. A young specialist with the center's problem gambling service, John Macdonald said the numbers are in line with his recent experiences treating young gambling addicts.

"I've been doing this for 10 years and in the past two years, I've seen more clients than I ever have before," he said. The age ranges from 14-24 are often the prey of the perils of poker and online gaming, Macdonald said.

Some teenagers admit their preoccupation with gambling is excessive and may lead to addcition with the increase in their risky behavior. These cases are not norm said Macdonald and other researchers.

Robert Williams, a professor with the University of Alberta and Alberta Gaming Research Institute said, "When it comes to treatment, the barriers are more internal than external. Youth and adolescents are more likely to minimize the problem or deal with it on their own."

Macdonald said that the center for treating gambling problems is inadequate. They don't always have staff dedicated to dealing with youth.

He added, his center is planning to launch an online treatment program in September where clients can interact in a group setting, to extend help for problem gamblers.