In 2018, the Supreme Court struck down a federal ban on sports gambling, opening the door for states to begin legalizing it. Since then, 38 states and the District of Columbia have embraced sports betting in some form, making single game wagers accessible at retail locations and online. We've all seen the upbeat star studded commercials for sports betting and casino apps. Funny, fast paced and impossible to ignore. But behind the bright lights and big names lies a growing concern, one that more parents and caregivers are starting to recognize. According to the American Psychiatric Association, 10 to 15% of young people surveyed already struggle with significant gambling problems, and that number is only rising. So today we're sitting down with Josh Urkel, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania during Problem Gambling Awareness Month. And together we'll explore the impact of youth gambling warning signs to watch for and practical ways to help prevent gambling related harm.

Pennsylvania's Gambling Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7/365. Help is available by phone call, text message, or online chat. Call 1-800-GAMBLER Call the 24-hour helpline at 1-800-426-2537.

About Valley Youth House:

Valley Youth House (⁠⁠valleyyouthhouse.org⁠⁠) does more than just provide homes for Pennsylvania’s vulnerable, abused, and homeless youth. We partner with thousands of individuals each year to build a solid foundation for young people and their families. With dedicated street outreach, housing, counseling, skills training, health, prevention, and intervention services, we empower resilient young people in establishing promising futures.

The Youth Education Program is funded in part by the Lehigh County Department of Drug and Alcohol. Their commitment to prevention efforts across Lehigh County allows us to produce this podcast.

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