Problem Gambling

Understanding the Risks: Education, Prevention, and Support.

At John McGlashan College, we are committed to fostering a supportive environment where students are educated on potential risks to their wellbeing. Problem gambling, particularly with the rise of unregulated online platforms, can have serious consequences for young people, affecting their financial security, mental health, and academic life. It is essential that we work together to recognise the risks, promote healthy habits, and provide support.

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is defined as the urge to gamble continuously despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop. For students, it often involves a loss of control over money and time spent on gambling activities.

It can take many forms, including:

  • Online Betting: Engaging in sports betting, racing, or using offshore online casino sites.

  • In-Game Gambling: Spending on "loot boxes," virtual packs, or other video game mechanics that resemble gambling, often driven by a desire to win rare items.

  • Peer Gambling: Betting money or items on games of skill, cards, or sports results among friends.

  • Cryptocurrency Speculation: Treating volatile investments or crypto trading as a high-stakes gambling activity.

Understanding the difference between social gambling and problem gambling is key to taking proactive steps to prevent and respond effectively.

The Impact of Problem Gambling

Gambling can start as a harmless activity but can quickly escalate, having serious consequences for students and their whanau:

  • Financial Harm: Accumulating debt, borrowing or stealing money, and an inability to save or manage personal finances

  • Mental Health Issues: Increased anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of guilt or shame due to losses and secrecy

  • Academic Decline: Loss of focus on schoolwork, decreased performance, and skipping classes due to time spent gambling

  • Relationship Strain: Lying to friends, family, and teachers to hide the extent of the gambling, leading to isolation and trust issues

By addressing the issue early, we can reduce harm and support ākonga in making responsible choices.

 

Preventing Problem Gambling: Building Healthy Habits

Preventing problem gambling requires a collective effort from students, staff, and whānau. Key strategies include:

  • Promoting Financial Literacy: Educating students about budgeting, the true cost of debt, and the risks of 'get rich quick' schemes.

  • Educating about Online Risks: Raising awareness that unregulated offshore gambling sites may not be illegal for them to access, but they carry significant financial and security risks

  • Encouraging Communication: Keeping open lines of communication between students, teachers, and parents about online activities and money management

  • Fostering Alternatives: Supporting healthy co-curricular interests, hobbies, and social activities that provide enjoyment without financial risk

Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and supportive school environment where healthy habits are prioritised.

Recognising the Signs: Taking Action

If you are worried about a friend or if you recognise these signs in your own behaviour, it is important to act:

  • Increased Secrecy: Being secretive about money, online use, or phone activity, particularly when asked about it

  • Chasing Losses: The urge to gamble more to try and win back money that has been lost

  • Unexplained Cash/Possessions: Suddenly having new money or items, or conversely, having no money with no explanation

  • Mood Swings: Becoming irritable, anxious, or defensive when discussing money or online habits

  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing school, skipping assignments, or neglecting family duties to gamble

Speaking up is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Seeking Help and Support

No one should face problem gambling alone. Support is available from:

  • Teachers and Form Teachers, Deans, and Parents: Trusted adults who can provide guidance without judgment and connect you with internal support

  • School Counsellors: Professional and confidential support to navigate emotional challenges and discuss coping strategies

  • Helplines and Organisations: Access external, professional support services for gambling harm

Working Together for Responsible Choices

Problem gambling is a challenge we can overcome together. By raising awareness, taking preventative action, and supporting those affected, we can help rangatahi develop resilience and make responsible choices for their future.

For further guidance and reading, visit these resources:

If you have concerns or need assistance, please speak to your form teacher, dean, or member of our pastoral care team.
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