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Teens & Gambling

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Parents do their best to watch for risky behavior as their kids get older, but one behavior that might not be as obvious is online gambling.

man holding cell phone

This is becoming a huge problem for youth and teens, especially boys. According to Common Sense Media, 36% of boys ages 11-17 have gambled in the past year. Kids learn about gambling on social media, via betting apps on cellphones, in video games, and while watching sports which now often have ads for betting.

Teens are drawn to gambling because their brains are not yet fully developed and they can be impulsive and take risks. They also may feel invincible and not understand the consequences of their behavior clearly.

Betting has exploded since the 2018 Supreme Court allowing states to legalize sports betting; this is now legal in 39 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.

The legal age for betting is determined by the state and is either over 18 (as here in Washington state) or over 21. Kids get around the age restriction by using a fake ID, VPN, or the account of someone older. Gambling sites outside of the U.S. are also more lax regarding a user’s age.

Gambling behavior in kids often starts with betting in video games, making it hard to spot by parents. Bets in gaming may be for prizes or loot boxes (randomized “treasure chests”) using in-game or real currency. Video games often have ads and promotions for betting sites, tempting gamers regardless of age.

Betting is seemingly everywhere, including betting on sports during the game (“in-game betting”) often in a series of “microbets” which happen quickly, increasing the excitement and sense of urgency. There are apps that imitate casino-style gambling called “social casinos” which do not involve real money but do groom the user for actual gambling later.

The earlier kids get involved with betting, the more likely they are to develop problem gambling (gambling that feels uncontrollable and causes problems in a person’s life). Compulsive gambling increases the risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

How can you help your teen with this issue?

Have a frank and non-judgmental discussion, acknowledging any gambling you might participate in like lottery tickets or fantasy football. Be honest if you have had a problem with gambling yourself.

Look together at what your child is seeing that promotes gambling such as ads in video games and during sporting events, social media posts, etc. and discuss how tempting those might be.

Encourage your child to not focus on the promised “winnings” but the reality of losing and the consequences of gambling addiction.

Pay attention to signs of a problem like small unexplained charges on video game sites, more time on-line (especially if secretive), increased anxiety or depression, or worrying about money.

If you have concerns that your child may have a gambling problem, especially with anxiety or depression, schedule time for you and your teen to see their health care provider. There are good treatment options and intervening early gives your child the best chance of beating a gambling addiction.

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Dr. Elise Herman

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Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.

Teen Acne

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Contributor Dr. Elise Herman

Teen acne is very common, affecting 85% of adolescents. It can occur on the face, neck, back, shoulders, and chest. Mild acne usually resolves without scarring, but more severe acne can cause darkened areas and permanent depressions in the skin. Teen acne does improve in most by age 20, but in the meantime, it can worsen a teen’s self-esteem, emotional health, and result in bullying.

Acne occurs in teens due to increased pubertal hormones which cause sebaceous glands in the skin to make more sebum (oil which lubricates the skin). This sebum can plug the pores (hair follicles), resulting in swelling. Bacteria then can create inflammation, irritation, and redness in these swollen pores.

There are factors which are known to increase acne, including stress. Hormones related to menstruation can also worsen acne the week or so before a girl’s period. Some skin products (moisturizers, sunscreen, and cosmetics) can make acne worse. Look for water-based products and avoid any that contain mineral oil, beeswax, sodium lauryl sulfate, cocoa butter, or coconut oil. Products labeled “non-comedogenic” (meaning not acne-causing) are ideal. Things that rub or cause excessive sweating can contribute to acne; think of phones, chinstraps, and backpacks. Research has not shown a connection between diet and acne, though a healthy diet with lots and fruits and vegetables and minimal processed food is recommended for all teens.

There are four types of acne. Whiteheads are plugged pores that remain closed. Blackheads are plugged pores that are more superficial and open up, turning dark. Pimples are deeper plugged pores that become irritated and red due to bacteria (though this is not a true infection). Cysts or nodules are deeper, bigger, and may be painful. This severe type of acne can leave permanent scars.

If acne is mild or moderate, start with over-the-counter products. Washing twice a day with a mild soap such as Cetaphil or an acne wash can help. Clean fingertips are ideal for washing the face; avoid scrubbing. After the skin has dried for about 20 minutes, apply a low strength (2.5%) benzoyl peroxide product sparingly to the face and other problem areas (not just on pimples) once a day, perhaps in the morning. Lower strength benzoyl peroxide products have been shown to work as well as higher strength for most people. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels and clothing, so apply carefully. After washing the face in the evening and allowing it to totally dry, apply a thin layer of adapalene (also called ‘Differin’) which is derived from Vitamin A. Both benzoyl peroxide and adapalene can cause irritation, dryness, and redness so always apply to dry skin and use a small amount. These products can initially be used every other day, slowly working up to daily, to help minimize this.

It can take 2-3 months for acne to improve with an appropriate skin care routine, so patience is key. Squeezing acne lesions makes them more inflamed and take longer to heal as well as potentially causing scars, so should be avoided. If acne is more severe or not improving with over-the-counter care, seek help from your medical provider or a dermatologist. Treatment of more severe acne can help prevent permanent scarring.

Remember that although acne does usually resolve after the teenage years, it can be a very big deal to your teen in the present, affecting them not just physically but emotionally. Let your teen know that you empathize, and together you will do what’s needed to treat their acne.

more about The contributor

Dr. Elise Herman

Blog Posts
Profile

Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.