Youth and Young Adults

Being online is part of everyday life. Games, apps, streaming, and social media can be fun and a way to connect. But some digital experiences can make it easier to spend more time or money than you planned. Gambling is also more available than ever through mobile sports betting and online gambling.

This page is here to help you spot when “play" starts to feel stressful, and to share simple ways to stay in control. If you are worried, support is free and confidential.

When it stops feeling like fun

Sometimes the signal is not one big moment. It is a pattern that builds over time. You might notice you are playing longer than you meant to, checking your phone constantly, or feeling pulled back in even when you want to stop. You might feel stressed, irritated, or restless when you are not playing. You might spend money to try to get a better outcome or a bigger haul.

If any of this feels familiar, you are not alone. These experiences are common, and help is available.

Quick self-check

This is a quick check-in, not a diagnosis. If more than one feels true, consider setting a boundary or reaching out for support.

Select any that apply to you: I lose track of time while playing or gambling. I spend money I did not plan to spend. I feel pressure from “limited-time” offers, streaks, or daily rewards. I keep going because I feel close to a better reward or a bigger haul. I hide how much time or money I spend. I feel regret, stress, or guilt after I stop.

If you’re underage and gambling is showing up in your life, you’re not alone. You won’t get in trouble for asking for help. Support is available for you and your family.

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What can make it harder to stop

Some games and apps include features designed to keep you engaged. These can include random rewards, loot boxes or surprise packs, “daily spins," streaks, and push notifications. This is not about willpower. When something is designed to keep your attention, it can be hard to step away, especially when you are stressed, bored, lonely, or using alcohol or other substances.

Small steps that can help

You do not have to overhaul your life to make a change. Small changes can lower pressure and make it easier to pause. Turning off notifications, removing saved payment methods, setting app time limits, and taking regular breaks can help you stay in control of your time and spending.

If gambling is showing up around you

You may see gambling content through sports, social media, and mobile apps, even if you are under 21. If you feel curious or pressured, you are not alone. Ads and promotions are designed to make gambling look normal and fun, while downplaying the risks.

What you can do instead

If you feel pulled in, try taking a break from gambling content for a few days. Mute or block gambling ads and accounts when possible. Turn off notifications for apps that trigger urges. Talk with someone you trust if you feel pressure from friends or if you are worried about your behavior.

Talking to someone helps

If you are worried about your gaming, gambling, or spending, it can help to talk to someone you trust. That could be a friend, parent, caregiver, school counselor, coach, or another supportive adult.

If you are not sure what to say, you can start simple. “I've been feeling like I can't stop once I start." “I'm spending more time or money than I want to." “I think I need help setting limits."

Help Is Available Now (Free, Confidential, 24/7)

If you’re underage and gambling is showing up in your life, you’re not alone. You won’t get in trouble for asking for help. Support is available for you and your family.

Under 18? Start here: California Youth Crisis Line (ages 12–24)

Call: 1-800-843-5200
Support for youth and families, including when you’re feeling overwhelmed or in crisis.

18+? California Problem Gambling Helpline

Call: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Text: SUPPORT to 53342 (standard message rates may apply)
Chat: problemgambling.ca.gov

Youth-and-Young-Adults

Office of Problem Gambling

Youth and Young Adults

When it stops feeling like fun