PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — With the return of football season and other sports this fall, Oregon health officials are warning of a growing trend – sports betting among college-aged young adults.
The Oregon Health Authority cited a 2023 NCAA survey, noting 67% of college students living on campus admitted to placing sports bets, 16% reported engaging in at least one risky gambling behavior and 6% said they lost more than $500 in a single day.
Given these numbers, OHA is strongly suggesting families talk about the risks of gambling and sports betting with their students before they leave home.
“Many states are dealing with the rise in sports betting among college students, and Oregon is right there with them,” said Greta Coe, a problem gambling program manager with OHA. “We have to start talking about risky behaviors early on and make sure young people know there’s support if gambling becomes a problem.”
OHA is also encouraging they check out free resources, GamFin, a confidential counseling service for navigating gambling-related financial challenges, as well as the Evive App, which offers support for those with a gambling problem.
“I encourage people to keep the lines of communication open with those they care about,” Coe said. “If it seems like sports betting may be becoming a problem, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is available, and you are not alone.”
For more information on Oregon’s gambling support resources, visit here.
Jenna Deml
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