Gambling is becoming increasingly common among university students in the UK. Recent studies show that 47% of students have gambled in the last year. This habit can have serious consequences on their studies and overall well-being.
One survey even found that one in ten students has used part of their student loan to gamble.
Why Do Students Start Gambling?
Many students start gambling due to homesickness and the need for escapism, some popular services are bosstoto. Being away from home for the first time can be tough. Some students turn to gambling to distract themselves from feelings of loneliness or stress.
UK gambling psychotherapists mention that for some students, gambling becomes a way to mentally escape their current situation. This is particularly true during COVID-19, as many students were isolated in their student accommodation with limited social interaction.
The Appeal of Online Gambling
Online gambling is especially appealing to students. It’s accessible and easy to hide. Students, being digital natives, are comfortable navigating online spaces.
The familiar environment of online gambling provides comfort. For some, it’s about the thrill of the win, while others seek a way to escape reality. These factors make online gambling a dangerous and addictive activity for many students.
The Impact on Studies
Student gambling can severely impact academic performance. A survey by the UK’s National Health Service found that many students who gamble end up in debt.
The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) reports that 88,000 students in the UK are defined as problem gamblers.
These students often struggle to manage their finances and time, leading to poor academic outcomes. They may skip classes, miss deadlines, and perform poorly in exams.
Managing Money
For many students, university is the first time they manage large sums of money. Receiving a student financial help can be tempting, leading some to spend it on gambling.
Gambling psychotherapists explain that online gambling can make students lose touch with reality.
They may not realize how much they’ve spent until it’s too late. This creates a cycle of trying to win back lost money, which only worsens their financial situation.
Signs of a Gambling Problem
Gambling on services like boss toto is very popular among students. Recognizing the signs of a gambling problem is crucial. Some common indicators include a strong preoccupation with gambling, losing interest in other activities, spending unaffordable amounts of money, and dedicating a large portion of time to gambling.
If these signs are present, it’s essential to seek help.
Getting Help
There are several steps students can take to manage their gambling problems. One of the first actions is to block access to online gambling sites.
GAMSTOP is a free service in the UK that helps users exclude themselves from all online gambling websites. Additionally, device-blocking software like Gamban can prevent access to these sites. Many banks also offer transactional blocking to stop card payments to gambling websites.
Seeking Professional Help
Professional help is vital for overcoming gambling addiction. GamCare provides a range of confidential support services, including a 24-hour helpline, live chat, and face-to-face counselling.
YGAM also offers resources and support specifically for students. Engaging with these services can provide the necessary support and guidance to manage and overcome gambling addiction.
Helping Yourself
Besides professional help, there are several ways students can help themselves. Replacing the high from gambling with physical activities like running or going to the gym can be beneficial.
These activities can provide a healthy mood lift. For those seeking escapism, traditional forms of relaxation like watching a favorite TV series can work well.
It’s also important to have a strong support system of friends and family to offer encouragement and distraction during tough times.
Final Thoughts
Student gambling is a significant issue in the UK, affecting both academic performance and overall well-being.
Understanding why students gamble and recognizing the signs of a gambling problem are essential steps in addressing this issue. With the right support and resources, students can manage their gambling habits and focus on their studies and future success.
